Germany's sick‑leave rate modestly falls in early 2026, mental health becomes leading cause

A DAK‑Gesundheit analysis of roughly 2.2 million insured workers shows the overall sick‑leave rate in Germany slipped to 5.3 percent in the first half of 2026, a 0.1‑percentage‑point drop from the same period in 2025. The average number of calendar days per employee on sick leave fell to 9.6 days from 9.9 days.

Psychological disorders now account for the largest share of absence, rising 9 percent year‑on‑year and overtaking respiratory infections, which declined by 21 percent. Musculoskeletal complaints rank third. Younger workers (under 55) recorded lower absenteeism, while the over‑60 age group saw a 0.3‑percentage‑point increase.

DAK‑Chief Andreas Storm welcomed the reduction, calling it “encouraging,” but warned that long‑term illnesses still generate many lost days and require preventative action. The report arrives as the federal government debates stricter rules for reporting sickness at work.

Key figures: 5.3 % sick‑leave rate; 53 out of 1,000 employees sick on any given day; 9.6 average days absent; 2.2 million insured workers analyzed.