The M Word - Why We Need To Talk About Menopause

Menopause. There, I said it. It's the 'M word' that often goes unspoken in professional circles, yet it's a natural phase that half the population will experience. As a CEO and a woman navigating this transition, I believe it's time we bring menopause out of the shadows and into the boardroom. Throughout my menopause journey, I've grappled with self-doubt, sleep deprivation, mild depression, and weight gain. These challenges not only tested my resilience but also impacted my interactions with my team and customers. There were moments when my confidence wavered, and my usual drive and clarity seemed to fade. It was a humbling experience that taught me the importance of vulnerability and self-care. By acknowledging my struggles and seeking support, I was able to navigate this period with greater empathy and understanding, ultimately strengthening the bond with my team and deepening the trust with my customers

The Silent Struggle

Firstly, let's talk statistics. According to a study by the British Menopause Society, nearly 80% of menopausal women are in the workforce, and 45% find their symptoms have a negative impact on their work. Despite these numbers, a staggering 70% of women do not disclose their menopause status to their employer. Why? Because there's a stigma attached to it, a misplaced belief that it signifies the end of a woman's prime years, both personally and professionally.

In my own journey, I've experienced the challenges firsthand. Hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances were not just discomforts; they affected my decision-making, my leadership, and my overall well-being. It was a wake-up call to see how menopause was impacting not just me, but potentially millions of women in leadership roles, and their teams.

Breaking the Silence

The silence around menopause in the workplace is deafening. It's time for a change. Companies need to acknowledge this phase of life as a natural progression and create supportive environments for women going through menopause. This includes offering flexible working hours, providing access to resources and support groups, and fostering an open culture where women feel comfortable discussing their needs.

Empowering Women

For women experiencing menopause, it's crucial to be kind to yourself. Recognise that your body is going through a significant change and it's okay to seek help and make adjustments to your routine. Embrace this phase as a time of transformation and growth.

As leaders, we have a responsibility to initiate conversations and implement policies that support women during menopause. By doing so, we not only empower the individual but also create a more inclusive and productive workplace.

"Menopause is not a weakness, it's a phase of strength. Embracing it in the workplace is not just about supporting women, it's about empowering an entire workforce to thrive through every stage of life."

I have three good friends whose names I have changed but the stories are real and I hope they resonate and give some light hope for some of the amazing women out there:

Anna, a 52-year-old marketing director, was in the middle of a crucial meeting when a hot flash hit her like a wave. Her face flushed, her heart raced, and sweat dampened her blouse. Embarrassed, she excused herself, blaming it on the air conditioning. For months, Anna had been struggling with sleepless nights and unpredictable mood swings. She felt like a stranger in her own body. One day, she confided in a colleague who suggested she see a doctor. The diagnosis? Menopause. Anna felt a mix of relief and fear. She started hormone replacement therapy and joined a support group. Gradually, she regained her confidence. She realised menopause was not the end but a new beginning.

Maria, a 48-year-old project manager, prided herself on her attention to detail and calm demeanor. But lately, she found herself forgetting tasks and snapping at her team. She was ashamed and confused. Her mother had never talked about menopause, so Maria didn't recognise the signs. It wasn't until she broke down crying in her boss's office that she sought help. Her boss, a woman who had gone through menopause herself, offered understanding and flexibility. Maria started therapy and made lifestyle changes. She opened up to her team, and to her surprise, they rallied around her. Menopause became a topic of open discussion, not a secret struggle.

Sarah, a 55-year-old CEO, had always been the picture of strength and resilience. But when menopause hit, she felt vulnerable. Her body was changing in ways she didn't understand, and it scared her. She started experiencing anxiety attacks for the first time in her life. Determined to find answers, Sarah dove into research. She learned about the physiological and emotional aspects of menopause and started sharing her findings with her peers. What began as a personal journey turned into a company-wide wellness initiative. Sarah's openness transformed the workplace culture, making it more inclusive and supportive for all women.

These stories highlight the diverse experiences of women going through menopause and the importance of understanding, support, and open conversation in navigating this life stage.

A Call to Action

Let's make menopause a talkable point. By breaking the silence, we can foster a culture of understanding and support, empowering women to thrive through all stages of their lives. It's time for companies to step up and for individuals to speak out. Together, we can shift the narrative and celebrate menopause as a natural and important phase of life.

About me: I'm a CEO by day, menopause warrior by night, and a coffee enthusiast in between. With a penchant for turning challenges into opportunities, I'm navigating the waves of menopause with a bit more grace, humour than I did last year, and an unwavering determination to make the workplace a better place for women of all ages. When I'm not leading my team or advocating for sustainability you can find me indulging in my love for food, or lost in a good book. I believe that laughter is the best medicine and that a little humor goes a long way in making the world a brighter place.