Aims. The aim of this study was to focus on and to discuss how social factors influence sickness absence. There were two aims of this study: a) To explore and reveal the absentees experiences and perceptions of sickness absence in daily life b) To explore and reveal the absentees own perceptions and experiences of coping while being on sickness absence. Methods. Qualitative method through a pragmatic synthesis of elements of ethnography and grounded theory were used. The sample from the county of Oppland, Norway (n=30) had a mental or a musculoskeletal diagnosis in accordance with the ICPC-2 medical classification system. Results. The interplay between working conditions and private life burdens has an impact on the development of illness and sickness absence, reinforcing the perception of a total life burden situation for women; including caring responsibilities. Men experience stress and conflicts at work, mostly from the leadership and its organizational structure. The majority of the sample used different techniques and strategies to cope with their illnesses, highlighting the significance of the nature-culture interplay. Conclusion. A holistic approach that considers the whole life situation must also be considered in order to understand gender differences in sickness absence. The importance of being involved in daily activities, and feelings of belonging to a social network were important for both men and women. This research may also add important awareness and understanding of Nature-Culture-Health (NaCuHeal) benefits in public health.
Key words: ickness absence, gender differences, mental problems, musculoskeletal problems, coping, nature-culture, health, social, problems, burden
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