Supporting Women’s Health in the Workplace
It’s Women’s Health Week - a week that reminds all women to set aside time for their mental and physical health and wellbeing.
Run by Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, this annual campaign seeks to help women take positive and practical steps to good health, including in the workplace. The issue being? Women have a unique set of health and wellbeing requirements, but many employers are still using a one-size-fits-all approach.
Here’s how you can help shine a light on women’s health issues, and support the women in your community this Women’s Health Week and beyond:
Health Checks
Health checks fell off the radar for many of us these past two years, but scheduling regular employee health checks can help get things back on track. From reminding employees to self-check skin and breasts, to offering in-house routine screenings, there’s plenty you can do to help put health back on your team’s radar. Take a look at this Health Checks for Women Guide to schedule what women need checked and when.
Flexible Work Culture
Women face a range of unique issues that can affect their daily work life - from disruptive PMS and menopausal symptoms, to bigger reproductive issues like endometriosis and PCOS. Creating a work environment that supports these issues like any other mental or physical illness, helps women feel supported. Similarly, offering flexible work arrangements for pregnant workers or new mums helps alleviate pressure that may lead to physical or psychological difficulties.
Take Time for Mindfulness
Whilst good mental health is important for both sexes, women can experience poor mental health conditions at higher rates than men. Supporting women with regular classes that encourage mindfulness is a great way to help manage stress and promote self-awareness. Why not host a daily morning yoga class or lunchtime meditation session around your workday? The beauty of these sessions is that they don’t require space or extra equipment, and can be tailored to your group size.
Support groups and awareness sessions can also help women struggling to connect with a provider, share their problems, and get support with mental health concerns.
Get Moving
Many women struggle to find the time for exercise around their busy work days and personal lives. So offering accessible classes before, during or after work are a great way to build movement into the day. Regular exercise classes in the workplace help to create social connection, provide stress relief and support the physical health of women, as well as a good boost of endorphins. Some of our top weekly offerings include Boxing, Pilates and Run Club - providing an outlet for everyone, rain or shine!
Host a Women’s Health Event
Women’s Health Week is the perfect time to host a special event or workshop raising awareness around women’s health issues. But why not schedule regular events throughout the year? From lunch and learns around nutrition and sleep, to sound healing and breathwork events, take a look at our menu of wellness workshops to see how we can support you.
Need help managing your corporate wellness calendar? Contact us today to learn more about our complete workplace services.