Written by: Ellen Kocher, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Tuesday, October 18th is World Menopause Day to raise awareness of menopause and the support options available for improving health and wellbeing. Simultaneously, Movember is an annual event involving the growing of mustaches during the month of November to raise awareness of men’s health issues.
I believe that “Taking a Pause” to raise awareness about menopause and andropause (male menopause) in the workplace is particularly important in our current demographic and economic landscape.
Here’s why
« The Pause » is a natural condition affecting all people.
Much of the world is experiencing an aging workforce due to demographic shifts and increased life expectancy. This means a substantial portion of the workforce is going through menopause or andropause. Acknowledging and supporting these employees is essential for retaining their skills and expertise.
Today's workplaces are increasingly diverse in terms of age, gender, and cultural background. Raising awareness about menopause and andropause demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and recognizing the unique needs of all employees.
Menopause and andropause can have physical and psychological effects that impact employee well-being. Addressing these issues can lead to better overall health and reduced absenteeism.
Promoting awareness of menopause and andropause ensures that both men and women are supported during age-related hormonal changes, contributing to gender equity in the workplace.
By supporting employees through menopause and andropause, organizations can maintain a productive and skilled workforce, leading to cost savings associated with reduced turnover, recruitment, and training of new employees.
A few statistics to build your business case
Almost 40% of the workforce is over 50 (men: 62%, women: 38%)
Approximately 75% will experience some symptoms
Approximately 25% will experience serious symptoms.
Research by Harvard, Mayo Clinic, and the NHS shows, however, that most people are reluctant or even afraid to talk to their employer and the conversation still remains largely taboo.
Though well-being emerged as a strategic business priority, workplaces, practices, and policies are generally not designed with menopause or andropause in mind!
Here’s how
Run workshops that provide information about menopause and andropause explaining the physical and emotional aspects of these life stages, as well as strategies for managing related symptoms can help employees understand what their colleagues (friends and family) may be going through and provide tips.
Create a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their experiences and support from colleagues through forums, discussion groups, or online platforms that facilitate these conversations. HERE are 10 ideas.
Allow for flexible work arrangements, temperature control in the office, or providing support for mental health which are clearly communicated to employees.
Provide group or individual coaching to support employees through menopause and andropause helping them to change health behaviors to understand better and manage symptoms.
Make resources available to employees dealing with menopause and andropause including websites, pamphlets, access to counseling services, or information on local healthcare providers who specialize in menopause and andropause-related care.
If you stay silent, you are reinforcing the taboo and ambiguous attitude that currently exists. Through active leadership support, an organization can begin to realize benefits in productivity, work culture, and the bottom line, when « the pause » transitions are addressed as a specific, work-related concern.
By taking these steps, you can create a workplace culture that acknowledges and supports employees going through menopause and andropause, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic environment.
If you’re ready to “Take a Pause,” share this article and /or reach out to discuss your customized program and start the conversation — for yourself, or for your organization!
Ellen Kocher, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Ellen Kocher is an Economist and Certified Workplace Wellness Consultant who holds a master’s degree in Health & Wellness Coaching. Following 10 years as an Executive in Finance, Ellen made some major lifestyles change and has dedicated the past 20+ years to walking her talk through workplace wellbeing, promoting a holistic approach to eating, physical activity, health, resilience, and self-care. Ellen has coached hundreds of individuals and groups in dozens of organizations to make sustainable lifestyle changes empowering them to go from knowing what to do to actually doing it! Most recently Ellen’s work focuses on the 50+ demographic.
