You’ve probably experienced the common cold at some point in your life.
According to Northwestern Medicine, illnesses are more common in the winter months, partly due to the human body’s weakened ability to fight viruses in cold, dry conditions. For your sake, and the sake of the people you will encounter, it’s important to take it easy and stay home when sickness strikes.

You need your rest
One of the worst things you can do when you’re sick is trying to power through it. Sure, sometimes we make commitments that must be kept and sometimes we have deadlines that approach regardless of if we’re healthy or not, but powering through and overexerting yourself can do more harm than good. The Chicago Tribune reported that sleep promotes healing by allowing your body to produce more white blood cells that attack germs and bacteria, reduce inflammation, and improves your mood; all things that are essential to rest and recovery.

When you’re feeling sick, even your typical daily routine might be exhausting. If you don’t allow your body the time and rest it needs to heal, it could prolong your illness. Calling out sick from work or class can allow you to take the time you need to rest and go easy on your body as it heals.

It’s the responsible thing to do
Germs can spread easily, especially in the colder months when people tend to spend more of their time inside in areas that are poorly ventilated, typically in close proximity to other people. In a classroom or an office space, you are likely coming into contact with a lot of different individuals, and germs can spread without you even noticing. Washing your hands and using hand sanitizer is certainly a good idea, but even if you do practice good hand hygiene, you can still pass germs through air particles. Staying home when you’re sick ensures that you’re not spreading germs to everyone in your class or office. If you won’t stay home for the good of your body, stay home for the good of your peers.

Teachers, bosses, and coaches need to respect that
You may feel pressured by a teacher, boss, or coach to work when you’re sick. People in positions of authority should care about the health and well-being of the people they have authority over. Most people are understanding when it comes to sick days, but some aren’t so compassionate. It’s important to remember to take care of yourself and advocate for yourself when you need to. If it is absolutely necessary that you show up to work or school while sick, communicate with your teachers/bosses that you are under the weather and will therefore be taking it a bit easier than normal. It also may be a good idea to wear a mask to prevent the spread of germs, even if you don’t have COVID-19.

Taking a sick day or two is not selfish. In my opinion, it’s more selfish to come to class and get everyone else sick. Everyone needs a sick day from time to time. Take it if you need it.

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