It is common in today’s workplaces for employees to regularly skip lunch, bring work home with them and come to work when sick. A recent survey says that HR managers recognize the problems overwork causes, but they don’t have the tools to manage them. Eight-in-ten HR professionals said that fatigue among workers is worse than in the past, according to research by Workforce Management and Workforce Software. Survey respondents said that reduced staffing levels, technology that allows employees to work from home or while on vacation, and fear of losing a job contribute to workers’ drive to work more hours.

In an effort to keep up with heavier workloads, employees often choose to skimp on downtime. The results of a Monster Global Poll reveal that 60 percent of respondents do not take their full lunch break, with 7 percent skipping lunch altogether. Twenty-one percent of workers said they always eat at their desks in order to get more work done.

"Taking a lunch break is very important to keep healthy and refreshed," said Jeffrey Quinn, senior director at Monster Intelligence. "Our bodies and brains need fuel to operate and many workers actually find they are more productive after some time spent away from their desk. If people feel they are too busy, they should take stock of their workload and try to plan it into their day."

While workplace pressures and poor eating habits take their toll on workers’ health, a new CareerBuilder survey of more than 3,700 workers nationwide reveals that 72 percent of workers typically go to work even when they are not feeling well. Fifty-five percent of workers said they feel guilty if they call in sick. When workers come to work ill, their germs come with them. More than half of respondents, or 53 percent, said they have gotten sick from a coworker who came to the office ill. Another 12 percent said they picked up a bug from someone who was sick on public transportation going to or from work.

There are ways to encourage a healthy workplace. Besides being proactive by getting a flu shot, Haefner offers the following tips for staying well at work:

• Don't share your germs. If you are sick, stay home. If you absolutely must come into the office, work in a conference room or away from others so you don't spread your sickness. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer frequently.
  
  
• Take a break. With many workers facing heavier workloads and longer hours, some may be feeling maxed out. Manage your stress and stay healthy by taking a break during the day, exercising or even practicing yoga or meditation.
  
  
• Discuss options. If you are concerned about taking days off work when you are ill, talk to your manager or HR department so you have a clear understanding of how your sick days can be used. Offer to telecommute, delegate or call in if necessary, but be sure to get as much rest as needed to get back on your feet.