That's Sick

Sweden provides generous welfare benefits to workers on sick leave. Not surprisingly, after years of this policy, Swedes have a rather loose definition of "sick." Surveys show 40 percent of workers say that feeling tired is reason enough to stay home and collect benefits. Some 41 percent say that a conflict with their boss or co-workers entitled them to sick leave. And 65 percent say stress on the job allows them sick leave. Sick leave days have doubled over just the past two years, and sick leave benefits account for 15% of government spending.