I am dealing with a highly rigid and toxic work environment. My Human Resource Manager dismisses valid reasons for absence—such as illness, family... emergencies, or even public health risks—it has created serious issues for my well-being, morale, and mental health. I am overwhelmed with work, one rest day a weak, she refused to give me a medical cover being the one who is most at risk coz I see all patients for the company. I am looking for a better working environment. more

You're absolutely right to be concerned — working through illness not only harms your health but puts others at risk too. A company that doesn't... respect basic well-being often reflects deeper issues. If the culture feels unsustainable and growth opportunities are limited, it’s completely reasonable to start exploring better options. You deserve a workplace that values both your contribution and your health more

It's interesting that i have encountered bosses with such narrow minded views, two of them changed their philosophies "considerably" when illness... (unfortunately) struck their families. Funny how values change when life throws unexpected events. Anyway if the beliefs of your boss are totally opposite to yours and as you say prospects aren't great - what are you waiting for.... go and explore
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He needs to tell us more. Is he the kind of worker who just calls in to tell i am not coming today for this and that often. How frequent are your... requests? Don`t forget that there are workers also who are always away for flimsy reasons. Until we hear the story from the boss being described here, do not be quick to judge. more

Health is a priority, when you lose your health, you won't have the job again...but when you lose your job and reserve your health, you will still... have the opportunity to do something better.
It's absurd to hear of such a behaviour being exhibited by your boss! more

Get an official sick leave from the Doctor with specific number sick leave days, that will settle the matter.

Nothing much you can do to change that situation, that's toxic work environment , get out before it takes toll on your mental health

Find a new place of employment.

Take your sick leave when you are sick and if you get fired, use the unemployment to obtain new skills and get a better job.

Ethan have you thought of calling your local health department? Intentionally putting yourself and others at risk can cause a health concern.

If your boss owns the business don’t even bother trying to change his mind. Start looking elsewhere. If it is a company large enough to have an HR... head there perhaps with others to bolster the case that his behavior needs to be addressed. However, if there really isn’t opportunity for you there or the place isn’t your cup of tea don’t waste your time with HR. Spend your energy finding a new job.  more

You need a new boss at a new company.

There's life after work, what kind of boss won't care for the well-being of his staff? That's not a place to be, please start the search for a new... office asap, no time! more

The only advice I can give you is to be looking for a job . Get a place where you are proud of

What company is this? Leave that place they dont care about you for sure

PS> pls keep in mind that while his denials are against the law, evidently, he doesn't care. He is wrong; you are right! I'm praying for you!

Ethan:
I'll cut to the chase; find another job that is a better fit for you! You are not going to change this person's mind about sick leave. It... doesn't matter that you have sick leave available. What matters is that he will continue to pressure employees about using their sick leave.

Obviously, this boss of yours is not readily approachable and will meet your request with an enthusiastic "no!" Deal with it as best that you can and in the interim, seek your livelihood elsewhere.

You sound like an intelligent and conscientious employee. You deserve better. All your co-workers deserve better.

I know it isn't easy finding another gig that fits your skill set in this current job market but put it in prayer! He is listening and is well aware of what is happening in your life!

Sincerely,
Lou ♫ more

Find somewhere else to go. You’re workin’ for a slave owner!

I am sure you have vacation days and sick days, correct? It is Illinois law. Hopefully you would have been advised of same before you took the job? ... Depending on the size of the company, certain laws need to be followed. more

In order for a business to have access to the states utilities (land and workers) it has to agree to laws, one of which states, "not a hazardous work... environment for your employees" you are not required to expose yourself to sickness hat could be avoided because of your job. Thats illegal more