German Sick Leave Hits 23.3 Days; Mental Illness Absences Up 42%

AOK data shows German employees averaged 23.3 sick days in the past year, with mental-health-related absences rising 42% — a sharp acceleration from prior trends. The figures signal a structural deterioration in workforce health that could weigh on productivity and labor supply, though the report is based on one insurer's claims data and may not capture the full workforce.