Recent statistics, which are the result of a Corporate Absenteeism Management Solution survey of 60 South African companies with more than 7000 employees over the course of one year, reveal that sick absenteeism cost South Africa about 19 billion per year. To combat this, employers should show a genuine interest in the health of their employees and encourage them to take ownership of their own health, with an increase in awareness and lifestyle change with a strong focus on stress management.