Horizon Health Network Commits to Menopause Inclusivity at Work

Horizon Health Network has joined a national initiative aimed at supporting women experiencing menopause in the workplace. This commitment aligns with the Menopause Works Here campaign, spearheaded by the Menopause Foundation of Canada, which advocates for greater inclusivity and understanding of menopause-related issues among employers.

The medical definition of menopause is straightforward — it marks the cessation of menstrual periods. However, according to Dr. Christa Mullaly, an obstetrician and gynecologist based in Fredericton, the severity of symptoms can vary significantly among women. “For some women, it’s mild symptoms — things like irregular periods, occasional sleep disturbances, or hot flashes,” Dr. Mullaly explained. “But for about a quarter of women, they experience severe symptoms.”

Dr. Mullaly highlighted that these more intense symptoms can include frequent hot flashes, severe sleep interruptions, and mood disruptions that raise the risk of conditions like depression and anxiety. “Sleep is foundational to our ability to function daily, whether that is at work, in our lives, or in our relationships,” she added.

A report released in March 2023 by the Menopause Foundation of Canada revealed the significant economic impact of menopause on the workforce. The report indicates that full-time employees experiencing menopause incur an annual income loss of approximately $3.3 billion due to reduced work hours, decreased pay, or even exiting the workforce altogether. This issue is particularly pressing as there are around 5 million women aged 40 and above in Canada’s workforce, with 2 million of them aged 45 to 55, the typical age range for menopause onset.

The Menopause Works Here program is not an accreditation but rather a commitment from workplaces to become more inclusive regarding menopause. Employers who participate gain access to a comprehensive guide that outlines steps to support employees effectively. Brittany Stein, Horizon’s regional director of well-being and safety, emphasized the importance of tailoring strategies to meet the specific needs of the workforce. “Grounding our strategies in listening, learning, and taking action is crucial. There’s not necessarily any one-size-fits-all solution,” Stein stated.

Stein further clarified that this initiative is not merely a checkbox exercise. Horizon’s initial steps include organizing learning sessions for healthcare leadership, reviewing existing benefits programs, and ensuring employees are aware of available services, such as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia.

As part of the launch, Horizon hosted a panel discussion that allowed staff to share their experiences related to menopause. Stein noted that the emotional atmosphere during the session was profound. “Tears were shed that day in the room. We were able to gather together and discuss something that previous generations might not have felt comfortable addressing,” she said. “Feeling safe to talk openly about menopause is special and helps break stigma, fostering dignity and making people feel seen and supported, particularly in the workplace.”

Horizon Health Network’s participation in the Menopause Works Here campaign reflects a growing recognition of the importance of addressing menopause-related challenges in professional environments. By fostering an inclusive culture, organizations can enhance employee well-being, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.