Breaking the Silence: Andrea Griffin’s Mission to Support Menopause Awareness in the Workplace
In recent years, the conversation surrounding menopause has gained momentum, yet many workplaces still struggle to address the challenges it presents. Andrea Griffin, a 63-year-old wellbeing expert based in Cwmbran, is on a mission to change that narrative. With the launch of her business, Griffinhouse Well-Being, coinciding with Menopause Awareness Month, Andrea aims to raise awareness and provide essential support through training and workshops tailored for both employees and employers.
Understanding the Need for Awareness
Andrea’s passion for menopause awareness stems from her own experiences. With close to four million women aged 45-55 currently employed in the UK workforce, and an increasing number of individuals over 50 contributing to the labor market, it is crucial for employers to recognize and support their needs. Andrea emphasizes, “We need to break the silence that surrounds menopause and to understand how it affects not just women but men too.” This acknowledgment of andropause, often referred to as the ‘male menopause,’ is a significant aspect of her mission.
A Personal Journey to Empowerment
Andrea’s journey to becoming a menopause wellbeing coach was not without its challenges. After a 30-year career in advisory teaching roles, she retired at the end of last year, only to confront her own health issues. Having battled breast cancer, clinical depression, burnout, Meniere’s disease, and a host of other symptoms, Andrea found herself navigating the complexities of menopause without fully understanding its implications. “I thought I knew all about menopause, but I never associated it with any of the symptoms I was experiencing,” she reflects.
It was through her studies in advanced menopause and andropause as a clinical hypnotherapist that she discovered the extensive range of symptoms—over 50 in total—that can affect women in their daily lives. From hot flushes to anxiety, stress, and brain fog, these symptoms can significantly impact an individual’s work performance and overall wellbeing.
Workshops and Training: A Comprehensive Approach
Recognizing the need for structured support, Andrea has developed training courses and workshops designed to provide a foundational understanding of menopause and its symptoms. These sessions not only educate employees about what to expect but also equip them with tools to manage their symptoms effectively. “This, in turn, would help to retain valued, experienced staff and increase productivity,” she notes.
Andrea’s approach is holistic, aiming to create a supportive environment where open conversations about menopause can take place. She offers follow-up sessions to help employees navigate their experiences, ensuring they have access to ongoing support.
Creating Menopause-Friendly Workplaces
One of the key components of Andrea’s initiative is her focus on developing menopause-friendly workplaces. She provides training sessions for businesses, enabling senior leaders, managers, and designated menopause champions to better support their staff. “It’s also about enabling managers to adhere to new guidance on menopause in the workplace,” she explains. By fostering an inclusive culture, companies can help alleviate the stigma surrounding menopause and create an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their challenges.
A Vision for the Future
Andrea Griffin’s commitment to raising awareness about menopause and andropause is not just about addressing symptoms; it’s about transforming workplace culture. By providing a comprehensive toolbox of techniques, strategies, and advice, she aims to empower both individuals and organizations to navigate the complexities of mid-life challenges.
As she embarks on this journey with Griffinhouse Well-Being, Andrea hopes to inspire a shift in how menopause is perceived and managed in the workplace. Her vision is clear: to break the silence, foster understanding, and create supportive environments where all employees can thrive, regardless of their age or gender.
In a world where conversations about health and wellbeing are increasingly important, Andrea Griffin stands at the forefront, advocating for change and championing the cause of menopause awareness. Through her workshops and training, she is not only helping individuals cope with their symptoms but also paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.