France's absenteeism climbs, mental health fuels long sick leaves

A recent study of 3.8 million private‑sector workers in France shows that absenteeism has risen sharply, with 32 % of employees experiencing at least one sick leave in 2025 and the overall absence rate reaching 4.3 % – a 25.5 % increase since 2019. Long‑term absences (over 60 days) account for only 9.4 % of all stops but represent 63.8 % of lost days. Mental‑health issues now top the list of causes for leaves longer than 30 days, making up 37.8 % of such cases and growing 25 % since 2020, especially among workers under 40, women and executives.

Despite the growing impact, more than half of French companies have not introduced specific absenteeism‑reduction actions; only 29 % have structured prevention programmes. Experts suggest that controlled medical reviews of sick‑leave certificates, applied transparently and fairly, can deter unjustified absences and lower costs, which can reach about 1 % of payroll. Complementary measures such as psychological support cells, health‑prevention programmes and support for caregivers are recognised as effective but remain under‑utilised.