7 Most Common Reasons for Getting a Sick Certificate in 2025

Key Takeaways

Sick Certificates Aren’t Just for the Flu

From stomach bugs to back pain, Australians seek sick certificates for all kinds of health reasons—both physical and mental. Recognising when to get one helps protect your health and your rights at work.

Mental Health and Grief Matter

Anxiety, burnout, or even the impact of a loss can affect your ability to work. These aren’t just emotional struggles—they’re medical concerns, and you deserve time to recover.

You Can Get a Sick Certificate Without Leaving Home

Thanks to telehealth, you can now get a legitimate medical certificate online through a video consultation. It’s legal, quick, and keeps you out of the waiting room when you’re not feeling your best.

Let’s Talk About Sick Certificates

Getting sick is a part of life. But knowing when you actually need a medical certificate for work? That’s where things can get a bit confusing. Let’s walk through the most common situations where Australians request one—and how telehealthdr can make the process easier in 2025.

1. Respiratory Infections

Colds, the flu, COVID-19, bronchitis, and pneumonia are still some of the top reasons people need time off. If your fever hits 38°C (100.4°F) or higher, your cough won’t let up, or breathing becomes difficult, it’s time to rest—and get a doctor’s note.

Most people need 5–7 days to recover from the flu or isolate, but more severe cases can stretch into a few weeks. When symptoms last beyond three or four days, it’s smart to talk to a doctor.

2. Stomach and Digestive Issues

Food poisoning, stomach bugs, or conditions like IBS can make it impossible to function normally. Around 15% of Australians live with chronic digestive conditions.

If you’ve been stuck near the bathroom for more than 48 hours or are dealing with severe cramping, you probably need time off—and a certificate to match.

3. Muscle and Bone Injuries

Back pain, sprains, fractures, and repetitive strain injuries are more common than you think. In fact, 80% of adults will experience back pain at some point.

Depending on the injury, you might need a few days or up to eight weeks to heal. If it affects your ability to sit, walk, lift, or type—basically, to do your job—you’ll need a certificate.

4. Mental Health Conditions

Burnout, anxiety, depression—these aren’t just bad moods. They’re serious health concerns that impact focus, sleep, and even your physical wellbeing.

If you’re struggling to concentrate, losing sleep, or feeling overwhelmed, speak to your doctor. They don’t have to disclose your condition to your employer—they simply confirm you’re unfit for work.

5. Grief and Loss

Standard bereavement leave often isn’t enough. Grief can leave you physically and emotionally drained.

Doctors understand that healing takes time, and they can provide a certificate to extend your leave if you’re not ready to return.

6. Migraines and Severe Headaches

Roughly 12% of people get migraines. They’re not just “bad headaches”—they’re disabling episodes that come with nausea, light sensitivity, and sometimes even vision loss.

If migraines disrupt your ability to work safely or function normally, a sick certificate validates the need to recover.

7. Pregnancy-Related Conditions

Morning sickness is no joke—up to 80% of pregnant individuals experience it, and some have a severe version called hyperemesis gravidarum.

Conditions like back pain, gestational diabetes, or high blood pressure can also require time off. A doctor’s note ensures you’re covered and protected under Australian laws.

Get a Sick Certificate Online in 2025—Here’s How

You no longer have to leave the house (or your bed) to get a sick note. Telehealth makes the whole process smoother and faster.

Here’s what it looks like:

Book an appointment online. Telehealth services like TelehealthDr offer same-day availability.

Chat with a doctor over video. Explain your symptoms just like you would in person.

Get your certificate. It’s emailed to you, so you can forward it directly to your employer. No printing needed.

Why Telehealth Works So Well

Using a telehealth service helps you rest at home, avoid spreading germs, and save time. The certificates are 100% legal and recognised across Australia.

It’s ideal for:

• Respiratory infections
• Mental health days
• Mild injuries
• Migraines

But for severe symptoms—like difficulty breathing or pain that feels intense—you should still seek in-person care.

Final Thoughts

Getting a sick certificate shouldn’t be hard. Whether it’s for a cold, mental health, or recovery after surgery, taking time off is your right—and part of your healing process.

In 2025, services like TelehealthDr make it easy to get legitimate medical certificates with just a short video call.

Your health comes first. Rest when you need it, heal properly, and let telehealth support your recovery journey.