Boss's Response to Sick Leave Request Sparks Outrage Online

whatsapp Oct 19, 2025

In an age where mental and physical health are finally gaining the spotlight in the work environment, a recent incident underscores the continuous struggle employees face in the corporate world when it comes to taking a sick day. According to Times of India, employees often encounter resistance when addressing personal health against the backdrop of professional responsibilities.

The Viral Exchange

A seemingly innocuous WhatsApp exchange between an employee and their manager has gone viral for all the wrong reasons. The employee, seeking respite from a headache, requested a sick day, only to receive a curt response advising them simply to take a painkiller and report to work. The manager’s dismissive tone, conveyed in messages such as “You don’t get leave for a headache,” has sparked outrage and discussion across social media platforms.

An Unwavering Manager

The viral Reddit post details the manager’s refusal, insisting that the employee, now past school-age dependency, should just “take some rest if needed, but come to the office.” The conversation, as shared online, reveals an apparent lack of empathy in corporate settings, stressing numerous social media users to sympathize with the employee’s plight.

The Online Outcry

Social media platforms erupted with criticism towards the manager’s approach. Users resonated with the employee’s need for rest, insisting on the basic right to sick leave when unwell. As one commentator poignantly noted, “Workers deserve rest and shouldn’t be guilted for taking care of their health.”

Advice and Support

Amidst the comments, fellow employees offered strategies for documenting such interactions. Many recommended maintaining records of conversations to have proof if the need arises to address injustices at a later date. “Always keep notes, testimony, and evidence of interactions like these,” advised one user, highlighting the importance of accountability.

A Broader Workplace Discussion

This incident transcends beyond a single workplace scenario and contributes to a larger discourse on employee rights and health policies. It lays bare the need for corporations to reevaluate their stance on what seems like minor health issues but could significantly impact employee wellbeing and productivity.

The dialogue continues as more stories emerge, shedding light on an experience far too familiar for many.

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