There are many aspects of work one could consider. For me, the social aspect is a big one. I have been in sick leave for a while now, will likely be home for a while longer, and I honestly miss the social net that work gives - both friends, friendly coworkers and unrelated coworkers. Plus there daily structure, the feeling of accomplishment and “being an active part of society”. Those are all important mental values that work provides and that can help while dealing with a long term illness.

This being said, there is a gradient between encouraging people to work while sick because out provides mental health benefits and forcing people to work while sick because otherwise they’d be on the streets without health insurance… And providing easy ways to work part time should be part of the equation.