Addressing Menopause Challenges in the Military

The Ministry of Defense (MoD) has taken significant strides to improve the wellbeing of its staff by introducing new workshops aimed at boosting mental health and reducing absenteeism. This initiative, part of the MoD’s inclusion strategy for 2024, responds to mental health becoming the leading cause of absence within the military, as reported by The Telegraph.

Addressing Mental Health Challenges in the Military

Anxiety, depression, and stress have emerged as the primary reasons for sick leave within Strategic Command, accounting for nearly a third of all cases. These issues are not unique to the military; they also significantly impact the broader workforce in Great Britain. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), an estimated 17.1 million workdays were lost in 2022-23 due to mental health issues. Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA England) reports that poor mental health accounts for more than half of all work-related illnesses, with stress, depression, and anxiety responsible for about 51% of long-term sick leave.

Workshops and Initiatives for Better Wellbeing

To combat these challenges, the MoD has introduced various events and workshops designed to support mental health and wellbeing. These include promoting mental health first aiders, observing Stress Awareness Month, offering menopause yoga sessions, and sharing mental health lived experiences. These initiatives aim to embed more inclusive behaviors and provide support to those affected by mental health issues.

Menopause and Its Impact on Women’s Careers

Menopause, affecting approximately 85% of women, presents a significant challenge. Symptoms can begin during perimenopause, which can start anytime from a woman’s mid-30s to mid-50s and last from months to years, with an average duration of three to four years. According to the CIPD, over half of the respondents reported being unable to work due to menopause symptoms, yet only a quarter of workplaces offer support or have a menopause policy in place. Furthermore, over a quarter of women said menopause symptoms had a negative impact on their career progression.

Finding Help and Support for Menopause Symptoms

Perimenopause and menopause symptoms can significantly impact daily life, wellbeing, work, and relationships. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the primary treatment, lifestyle changes are often recommended to help manage symptoms and improve overall wellbeing.

Hypnotherapy for Menopause

Hypnotherapy has proven beneficial for managing several menopause symptoms, including hot flushes. A controlled study found that 74% of menopausal women experienced a reduction in hot flushes and night sweats with hypnotherapy. This therapy helps manage mood swings and anxiety by reframing negative thought patterns and developing helpful coping mechanisms.

Yoga for Menopause

Yoga, which combines physical movement, mindfulness, and breathwork, can significantly reduce stress and promote self-care and wellbeing. Certain yoga poses are particularly effective in alleviating stress and anxiety, common symptoms of menopause.

Nutrition and Menopause

As the body changes during menopause, nutritional needs also change. Ensuring a balanced diet and proper nutrients is crucial. Nutritional therapists can provide guidance on how to navigate these changes effectively.

Working with a Therapist

Menopause is a transformational stage of life, both physically and mentally. Working with a counsellor or therapist specializing in menopause can help women explore the causes of anxiety and low mood, rebuild self-confidence, and find new ways to speak about themselves and their bodies.

The MoD’s efforts to promote mental health and wellbeing through these workshops and initiatives reflect a broader recognition of the importance of mental health in the workplace. By addressing these issues proactively, the MoD aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all its staff.