Employees tasked with covering for absent colleagues face serious risks to their well-being and productivity, according to Aflac’s 2025 Time Away Study. The research highlights how extended leave coverage without adequate planning, recognition, or support can fuel burnout, health issues, and disengagement.
The study found that 41% of employees reported burnout when covering for co-workers absent for more than eight weeks, while mental well-being dropped by 11 percentage points during these periods. Nearly a third (27%) of workers said they developed a new health condition due to the increased workload, and 18% reported worsening of pre-existing conditions. Stress levels were also pronounced, with 73% of employees experiencing at least moderate workplace anxiety while covering for peers.
Despite the added responsibilities, recognition often lags. 29% of employees said they received no recognition, even though 95% of leaders reported access to recognition tools. Among those who developed health conditions, 67% eventually took leave themselves.Aflac stressed that employers must adopt proactive leave management strategies to reduce these risks. Clear communication, contingency planning, recognition, and regular check-ins can help balance business continuity with employee well-being.
Company leaders emphasised that many managers underestimate the toll extended coverage takes, particularly on experienced employees. Aflac urged organisations to treat leave planning with the same seriousness as disaster preparedness, ensuring workers are supported and rewarded fairly.