'Deeply concerning' | 7 in 10 UK workers admit to pretending to be well at work

Nearly seven in ten UK employees are now pretending to be well at work when they are not, according to new research.

The study from Lime Health - which marks a sharp increase from 51% reported in 2021 - highlights a significant escalation in pleasanteeism; the pressure employees feel to appear “fine” at work despite physical or mental ill-health. 

The findings suggest the issue is becoming increasingly embedded in workplace culture. In total, 34% of employees say they often or always pretend to be well, rising to 69% when those who sometimes do so are included.

Employees cited money worries (49%), a lack of understanding from management (26%), and negative stigma around health (19%) as the main reasons for concealing health concerns in the workplace.