Janine's journey: Finding confidence during the menopause

Only 10% of women believe that employers provide enough support for employees going through menopause, according to our menopause customer survey of over 1,000 women. The truth is that menopause impacts everyone, organisations and society as a whole and much more should be done to support and empower women in the workplace. We chatted to Janine on her journey with menopause and mental health in the workplace.

Janine's experience

Navigating menopause

Janine recalls that her realisation of entering menopause wasn't instantaneous. Initially, she mistook her symptoms—such as hot flushes and poor sleep—for other possible medical issues. It was only after conversations with her mother, who had a similar experience at the same age, and visits to numerous healthcare providers that Janine came to terms with the fact that she was on her menopause journey. Despite feeling "too young" for menopause, this acceptance was pivotal, especially when her GP confirmed that her symptoms aligned with menopause.

Accepting her condition allowed Janine to reach out for support. Initially hesitant, she eventually found solace in sharing her experiences with friends who were going through similar challenges. Janine found reassurance and strength in her community, highlighting the importance of leaning on others during this time.

The impact of menopause on mental health

Menopause significantly impacted Janine's day-to-day life and mental health. The debilitating symptoms initially shook her confidence. Janine struggled with anxiety, worry, and even heart palpitations. However, finding educational resources and products specifically aimed at supporting women's health became a turning point. Janine says, "The DR.VEGAN^® products have made a huge difference in my life. That research, that support, your website is amazing. There's the menopause hub; it's just like a wealth of knowledge, and when you are educated about something, it makes all the difference so that you can then make informed decisions. I think that has really improved my outlook, and helped me accept the journey."

Menopause resources

8 Unusual Signs of the Menopause

How to know if you’re starting menopause

How to talk to your doctor about menopause

Menopause in the workplace

Janine's journey through menopause didn't come without its challenges in the workplace. She openly shares how menopause affected her confidence, especially in meetings where she found herself forgetting words or struggling to concentrate. However, the support from her employer, through menopause clinics and online resources, empowered her to advocate for herself and no longer apologise for her symptoms. Janine adapted by developing coping mechanisms such as writing notes and became more open about her condition, encouraging a supportive work environment.

How employers can support women going through the menopause

Janine strongly believes more needs to be done to support women experiencing menopause. She advocates for mandatory workshops within companies to educate and prepare not only women but also their families. Menopause should no longer be a taboo subject; instead, it should be part of the mainstream conversation. Janine emphasises that better education and understanding can lead to a more supportive environment in which women feel less isolated.

Menopause in the workplace resources

How to support employees and write a menopause policy

Menopause in the workplace: what are your employee rights?

Janine's tips for navigating menopause

You're not going crazy; acknowledge your feelings and symptoms.
Believe in yourself, trust your instincts and seek validation.
Do your research and equip yourself with knowledge from reliable resources.
Be kind to yourself; allow yourself grace and understanding.
Don’t sweat it; embrace this chapter in your life and move forward with resilience.

Key takeaway

Janine's story is a testament to the strength and resilience women can draw upon during challenging life transitions like menopause. By sharing her experiences, she hopes to inspire others to seek support, educate themselves, and more importantly, advocate for their needs both at home and in the workplace.

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Supplements for menopause

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