We recently ran a successful workshop on how to be a menopause ally, attended by nearly 70 colleagues from across the University. If you were unable to attend the session you can now watch the recording until 7 March.
Everyone can be affected by menopause – even if you’re not the one directly going through it. The session was open to anyone wanting to learn more about this life transition to help support their colleagues, partners, friends and family.
Why are we talking about menopause more now than ever?
Historically, menopause occurred around the age of 57, when the average life expectancy was 59. It was something that happened towards the end of someone’s life (and certainly not while they were in the workforce).
Fast forward to now and the average age globally for menopause is 45 to 55, compared with an average female life expectancy of 83. Eight out of ten of those experiencing menopause are in work. One in four people consider quitting their jobs during this time.
There are 30+ recognised menopausal symptoms (now understood to be upwards of 50). Many of these symptoms are not outwardly presenting but can have a huge impact on those at work (symptoms such brain fog, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, low mood, tiredness and joint pain).
Two in four people will experience mild to moderate symptoms and one in four will experience severe symptoms. It’s important therefore that we understand support is needed.
During the session we learned about what menopause is, how you can offer support (not advice) by actively listening, and where you can go to signpost help.