What is Menopause Transition Coaching? 

Menopause can significantly impact people in life and work. While some women experience minimal disruption, others face challenges that can alter their careers and health. For far too long, the topic of menopause has remained taboo but in recent times, it has been brought to the fore and workplaces are starting to recognise the positive impact they can have in supporting people through this stage of life. 

Menopause at Work 

Studies in Australia have identified a link between menopause and its impact at work.

• A 2014 La Trobe study identified more frequent and severe menopause symptoms, are associated with the lower engagement, reduced commitment to the organisation and the stronger the intention to quit. 
• Jean Hailes’ 2023 National Women’s Health Survey found that 17% of midlife women in Australia reported they have taken leave or an extended break from work (as opposed to ‘missing some days’) because of bothersome symptoms they attributed to menopause. 
• With a high percentage of women aged 45-55 employed in Australia (nearly 80%), losing experienced talent due to unmanaged menopause should be a concern for organisations. 

So what exactly is Menopause Transition Coaching? 

Menopause Transition Coaching offers a personalised approach to support women at work during any stage of menopause (perimenopause, menopause, or post-menopause), which empowers women to navigate this phase and thrive at work. 

Delivered by our national team of registered psychologists, this  program prioritises confidentiality and support, ensuring a safe space to discuss challenges and develop strategies for managing symptoms, maintaining performance, communicating with managers, and leveraging the strengths often associated with menopause. 

Addressing Common Concerns 

Women often express anxieties about menopause in the workplace, such as: 

• Feeling Unsupported: The program acknowledges the overwhelm many experience during this life transition, offering tools to manage work alongside other demands. 
• Trust: Concerns about discussing menopause with a younger or male manager are addressed in the program. The program highlights the expertise of qualified psychologists who understand the complexities of menopause. 
• Discrimination Fears: The program emphasises the value of open communication and helps create a safe space to discuss concerns with managers. 

Strategies for Managing Menopause at Work 

The program equips women with practical strategies to: 

• Understand Symptoms: Identifying and managing physical and emotional symptoms that can impact work performance, such as hot flushes, brain fog, and fatigue, plus we help unpack other factors that could be contributing symptoms during midlife.. 

• Communication Skills: Learning to effectively communicate needs and challenges to managers, to foster open communication and a supportive work environment. 
• Self-care Techniques: Developing healthy habits to manage stress, improve sleep, and promote overall wellbeing, leading to increased energy and focus. 

Benefits Beyond Symptom Management 

Menopause Transition Coaching goes beyond symptom management. It empowers women to leverage the strengths often associated with this stage: 

• Perspective and Insight: Women may experience a heightened ability to understand and manage emotions that come with decades of experience – fostering empathy and effective communication in the workplace. 
• Increased Resilience: The challenges of menopause can cultivate resilience, allowing women to navigate difficult situations with greater confidence. 
• Adaptability: Women going through menopause may develop a stronger ability to adapt to changes, a valuable skill in today’s dynamic work environment. 

Organisational Benefits  

Beyond empowering employees, Menopause Transition Coaching offers significant advantages for companies, fostering a more productive, engaged, and well-rounded workforce. 

• Employee Retention: By supporting women through menopause, organisations can help them stay engaged and productive, reducing turnover and the associated costs of recruiting and training new employees. 
• Improved Employee Wellbeing: The program equips women with tools and resources to manage symptoms, leading to better overall health and wellbeing, which can translate to fewer sick days and increased productivity. 
• Enhanced Morale and Culture: Offering this benefit demonstrates a commitment to employee wellbeing and fosters a more inclusive and supportive work environment, boosting morale and company culture. 
• Reduced Stigma: By openly addressing menopause, companies can help break down the stigma surrounding this natural life stage, creating a safer space for open communication between employees and managers. 
• Access to Talent Pool: Organisations offering menopause support are likely to be seen as more attractive employers by women going through this transition, expanding their talent pool. 

Our Menopause Transition Coaching Program 

This evidence-informed program is based on our Transition Coaching Model that we have been implementing and evaluating for over 10 years. It is designed and delivered by qualified workplace psychologists, and includes five hours of personalised coaching tailored to individual needs. Further, manager sessions can also be incorporated for a holistic organisational approach. 

Menopause Transition Coaching empowers women and fosters open communication, creating a win-win situation for both employees and employers. By providing a supportive work environment, this coaching helps women navigate this life stage and continue to thrive in their careers.

For More Information 

Click here to learn more about the Menopause Transition Coaching Program, contact Transitioning Well at www.transitioningwell.com  1300 824 808 or email:  info@transitioningwell.com.au