Stress in the Workplace is categorised as an adverse reaction to excessive pressure. A person who is experiencing stress can demonstrate other physical and psychological conditions, such as anxiety or depression.

Occupational Health focuses on the physical and mental wellbeing of an employee for the prevention and treatment of job-related injuries and illnesses.

When an employee is absent from work for a substantial period, this inevitably means that they do not have an opportunity to use their holiday entitlement.

Employees that are unwilling or unable to attend a disciplinary hearing is a common workplace occurrence. However, when the employee is unable to attend due to ill-health, namely stress, it can make the situation slightly more complicated. Employees generally believe if they are signed off sick, they can avoid disciplinary proceedings. However, this is not necessarily the case. The employer must balance the need for the matter to be resolved quickly and fairly, against the need that the employee must be given a genuine opportunity to attend the hearing.

Persistent short-term absence has a significant impact on business regarding productivity and morale, but a fine balance must be struck between trying to support employees who have long-term health issues and addressing those who persistently take time off with minor ailments.