5 Tips for Managers – Menopause Awareness Month

October marks Menopause Awareness Month. We’re putting the spotlight on key ways managers can support affected employees.

Menopause results from significant changes in the levels of a hormone called oestrogen. It generally happens between the ages of 45-55, averaging 51. It can also occur earlier, sometimes due to surgery or medical treatments.

Women, transwomen, and non-binary individuals can experience symptoms.

Why is it a problem?

Almost a million women have left their jobs because of menopausal symptoms. In contrast, others feel forced to take long-term work absences to manage symptoms.

Top 5 common symptoms

1. Anxiety and depression
2. Changes in mood – such as low mood or irritability
3. Hot flushes – the sudden, overwhelming feeling of heat on the skin
4. Difficulty sleeping – this may make you feel tired and irritable during the   day
5. Loss of confidence and ‘brain fog’

How can you help? 

Though symptoms and struggles may not always seem obvious, you can improve employee comfort. Here are five ideas:

1. Medical reviews –  To alleviate symptoms, women should book a consultation with their GP.
2. Review your policy framework – Do you have a menopause policy? Implementing employee guidance will set the tone for your business and increase support.
3. Break times – Accommodate your employees through this difficult time with unrestricted breaks and medical appointment allowances.
4. Enhance the culture – Emphasise the company-wide commitment to menopause as a workplace matter. You can start this by training and providing relevant information and advice openly. Proactively raise company-wide awareness through sharing collateral about menopause around the workplace.
5. Support systems – Identify sources of support at work. Whether you appoint a designated menopause champion or become one yourself, this can foster and develop an open and supportive community.

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