Managing Digital Sickness Presenteeism

The growth of home-based and hybrid working has brought greater flexibility, but also new risks to employee health and wellbeing. One emerging concern is digital sickness presenteeism – continuing to work remotely through digital technologies when unwell, rather than taking time to rest and recover. Drawing on research evidence and practical examples, this session will explore why employees engage in digital sickness presenteeism, including pressures to remain constantly available, blurred work–life boundaries, heavy workloads and workplace cultures that reward overwork. It will examine the potential consequences for employee health, productivity and organisational performance, while recognising that working during illness is not always harmful and can sometimes be therapeutic. The benefits and potential risks of remote working for employees with disabilities and long-term health conditions will also be considered. The session will offer practical, evidence-informed strategies for identifying and managing digital sickness presenteeism, with a focus on organisational policies, management practices and employee support. Delegates will gain practical guidance on reducing harmful presenteeism and creating healthier, more supportive home-based and hybrid working environments.