Mental disorders absenteeism in the years 2004 and 2009 in Slovenia.

Background : Absenteeism is a quality indicator of the negative health of the employed population. 6.7–8 % of total absenteeism in Slovenia is due to mental disorders. Methods : We have assembled and compared the lost working days because of mental disorders in Slovenia in the years 2004 and 2009. The absenteeism was calculated by using common denominator of 10,000 population. The full- and part-time (4 hours) absenteeism from work were merged and calculated as calendar days. Results : The temporary absenteeism increased only in the cluster of reactions to severe stress and adjustment disorders by 20 %. It decreased in schizophrenia (by 49 %), sequelae of alcohol abuse (by 46 %), psychotic disorders other than schizophrenia (by 40 %), anxiety disorders (by 35 %), first episodes of depression (by 24 %) and recurrent depressive disorders (by 8 %). Conclusions : The absenteeism underwent the greatest decrease in the field of psychotic disorders that mostly affect personal functioning. But only a prospective study could give us a clear answer about the consequences of the reduced absenteeism due to mental disorders.