Health-related aspects
Although there are a lot of individual differences, biological and psychological phases such as periods and menopause can have a large impact on the well-being of those who experience them. Over the course of a lifetime, women and non-binary people are also at greater risk of domestic violence, sexual assault, and health issues linked to both stress and higher expectations to take care of others.
In the tech industry, there is also minority stress from often “being the only woman or non-binary person in the room”. Awareness, understanding, and offering relevant solutions as a company are all important to provide the best conditions for co-workers to feel included and valued and to be able to perform at their full potential.
Periods
Altogether, people who menstruate do so for about 7–10 years of their lifetime, which can have serious impacts on their physical and mental health and well-being. Still today, menstruation is stigmatised in most parts of the world, leading to shame, lack of information, and hygiene problems. For many individuals, menstruation is accompanied by some form of discomfort or even pain on different levels. To create awareness about periods at the workplace, provide facilities such as hygiene bins and sinks at toilets and allow for flexible working is important for improving a menstruating persons’ well-being.
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◦ Education on period and menstrual pain for all employees to create awareness
◦ Provide access to medical help if needed
◦ Allow for flexible working
◦ Provide sanitary items
◦ Provide organisational support during pain days
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Menopause
People who go through menopause enter perimenopause at the end of their reproductive period, often between the age of 45 and 55. The hormonal change is gradual and can last several years before one enters menopause one year after the last menstruation. The hormonal changes affect individuals in different ways and can have a high impact on physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being.
The same as menstruation, menopause is often stigmatised and general education is low, causing a low level of understanding for those suffering under different conditions caused by the hormonal changes. Creating an environment of awareness and educating all about menopause can improve understanding and improve health and well-being during menopause.
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◦ Education on menopause and related symptoms for all employees to create awareness
◦ Provide access to medical help if needed
◦ Provide a calm and comfortable office space as retreat area
◦ Allow for flexible working
◦ Create a menopause policy
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Domestic violence
For individuals exposed to domestic violence, the workplace can be a safe space. Fostering a psychologically safe working culture sometimes also includes providing help and guidance in difficult private situations. This is a complex and sensitive issue that requires professional assistance.
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◦ Dare to ask
◦ Create a culture of awareness, communication, and trust
◦ Provide training for employees on how to offer emotional support in difficult situations and where professional help can be found
◦ Create an environment where it is safe for people to ask for help
◦ Have a support strategy involving professional organisations that work with the topic
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◦ Kvinnofridslinjen (women’s helpline)