Breaking the Silence: Embracing Menopause in Workspaces
Neerja Birla urges normalizing menopause discussions, highlighting its emotional and psychological impacts, especially in workplaces. She stresses societal openness and support structures, noting that many women experience significant changes during menopause, and calls for menopause-inclusive cultures in organizations to aid well-being and productivity.
- Country:
- India
Highlighting the need for more open dialogues around menopause, Neerja Birla, founder and chairperson of the Aditya Birla Education Trust, emphasized its emotional and psychological toll, particularly in workplace settings. Her remarks were part of an event by the FICCI FLO Bangalore Chapter, underscoring the invisible yet impactful changes women face during menopause.
Birla cited a World Health Organization report expecting over 1.1 billion postmenopausal women globally by 2025. In India alone, around 150 million women are in the perimenopausal or menopausal stages; however, fewer than 25% seek help, highlighting a significant gap in awareness and support.
Workplace dynamics add to the silence, Birla noted, referencing a Catalyst survey where 84% of employees across eight countries voiced the need for menopause support at work. She calls for organizations to develop menopause-inclusive policies, transforming this phase from a struggle to a journey of strength.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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