It’s OK not to be OK …during menopause
Hot flushes, night sweats, difficulty sleeping, tiredness, crankiness, depression, brain fog, confusion, irrationality, emotions, weight gain, thinning hairline, and 163 other obscure symptoms are some signs of menopause.
In fact, 100% of women (if they’re lucky enough) will go through menopause, yet we don’t talk about it or ask for help. Instead, we feel embarrassed, confused, and isolated. It’s no surprise that many women find working difficult during this time due to being tired, struggling to concentrate, feeling emotional, feeling self-doubt, and, let’s not forget, the hot flushes. Research has shown that the more frequent and irritating the symptoms, the less engaged women are, the less job satisfaction they experience, and the greater they intend to quit; around 10% of women leave their jobs early because of severe menopausal symptoms.
Research shows women are reluctant to talk about hot flushes or their menopausal status at work; they genuinely fear stigmatisation and diminished credibility. But if your menopause experience impacts your work performance, satisfaction or engagement, it’s time to reach out for the support you need.
At Programmed, we aim to create productive workplaces where everybody feels valued and safe to bring their whole selves to work. Our values of Care and Empathy and Diversity, Inclusion and Equality underpin the premise that we value your unique contribution. We want to understand and acknowledge what you may be going through; we want you to feel supported to navigate this life transition effectively.
Talking about how you’re feeling or about the life stage you find yourself in can be uncomfortable and a little confronting, but if you want more support at work, it’s time to start talking. We want you to be bold and brave!
Schedule some time to have an open and authentic conversation with your manager or HR team. Be clear about what support you need, whether it’s time off for doctors’ appointments, changes to your work environment, or requesting flexible or remote work.
Here are some things to think about:
- Temperature control for hot flushes; access to a window, portable fan, body mist or cold drinks
- Clean, accessible and well-stocked bathroom to assist with menstruation changes
- Menopause-friendly uniforms; multilayered and breathable fabrics
- Regular exercise: walking meetings, lunchtime walks, stand-up desk or stretching at regular intervals
- Practice mindfulness: deep breathing, gratitude exercises, meditation
- Flexible work arrangements; discuss in advance to manage fatigue, pain, menstruation changes
- And most importantly, be kind to yourself; you’re not losing it and are not alone.
For tailored information, speak to your healthcare professional and take back control; you can enjoy good health and a career through and beyond menopause.
To find out more, email: womenconnect@programmed.com.au
