World Menopause Day: Let’s Talk, Understand and Support | 18 October

World Menopause Day takes place on 18 October, providing an opportunity to raise awareness of Menopause, challenge stigma and encourage open conversations about Health and Wellbeing. 

Menopause is a natural stage of life, but the experience can be different for everyone. For some, symptoms may be mild; for others, they can affect sleep, concentration, confidence, emotional wellbeing and everyday life. Understanding Menopause helps us create a more informed, supportive and inclusive workplace.

Why It Matters to Us

As a workforce, we all have a part to play in creating an environment where colleagues feel comfortable discussing their wellbeing and accessing support without embarrassment or stigma.

Menopause can affect personnel at work and at home. Increasing awareness helps us better understand the experiences of colleagues, recognise the impact symptoms can have and know how to offer appropriate support.

Understanding Menopause

Menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can happen earlier. The transition leading up to Menopause us known as perimenopause, and symptoms can begin several years before.

Experiences vary, and not everyone will have the same symptoms.

These may include:

Physical changes: Hot flushes, Night Sweats, headaches, joint pain and heart palpitations.

Sleep difficulties: Disrupted sleep and tiredness, which can affect energy levels throughout the day.

Emotional Wellbeing: Anxiety, low mood, irritability and changes in confidence.

Concentration and memory: Difficulty focusing, remembering information or experiencing what is commonly described as brain fog.

These symptoms can sometimes affect how someone feels and functions at work. However, support and treatment options are available.

If symptoms are affecting your quality of life, speak with your GP or another appropriate healthcare professional to discuss the options available to you.

Supporting Menopause in the Workplace

Menopause is not just an individual health issue; it is also an opportunity for us to build a more understanding and supportive workplace.

A little awareness can make a significant difference. We can all help by:

Starting conversations: approach the subject sensitively and without judgement

Listening with understanding: allow colleagues to explain what they are experiencing without making assumptions

Respecting privacy: recognise that menopause is personal, and everyone should feel in control of what they choose to share.

Knowing where to find support: familiarise yourself with the guidance, learning resources and supports available with An Garda Síochána.

Encouraging understanding among managers and colleagues: knowing more about menopause can help us recognise when some many need support and have respectful conversations about their needs.

Creating a supportive culture benefits everyone.  No one should feel that they have to struggle in silence.

An Garda Síochána Menopause in the Workplace Awareness Programme

As part of our ongoing commitment to Health and Wellbeing, An Garda Síochána has introduced the Menopause in the Workplace Awareness Programme, developed by the Garda National Health and Wellbeing Office.

Available from the 1 September 2026, the programme builds on the existing Menopause Guidance Document and provides personnel with further information, practical tools and opportunities to improve their understanding of menopause.

The programme includes:

Online learning modules

Available through the AGS Portal, these short, accessible videos cover a range of topics, including understanding menopause, recognising physical and psychological symptoms, treatment options, practical supports and the impact on relationships.

In-person Menopause Cafés

Menopause Cafés are being organised across the regions, providing opportunities for personnel to connect, share experiences and learn in an informal, supportive environment. Details of local events will be communicated as arrangements are confirmed.

Support for colleagues and managers

This programme is designed for anyone experiencing menopausal symptoms, those who may experience them in the future, and colleagues and line managers who want to better understand and how to provide support.

How to Access the Programme

Visit the new Menopause in the Workplace Awareness Programme on KOPS for further information.

Personnel can access the online learning modules through the AGS Portal.

Take some time to explore the programme, share the information with colleagues and help us build a workplace where menopause is understood and openly discussed.

How Can We Get Involved?

World Menopause Day is an opportunity for everyone to play a part in raising awareness.

You can help by:

-Sharing this article with colleagues and encouraging others to learn more.

-Exploring the new Menopause in the Workplace Awareness Programme

-Taking part in local Menopause Cafés where available.

-Encouraging open, respectful conversations about menopause and workplace wellbeing.

-Supporting colleagues by listening, showing understanding and signposting them to appropriate resources.

Small actions can help challenge misconceptions, reduce stigma and make it easier for colleagues to seek support when they need it.

References:

1.KOPS – Menopause in the Workplace Awareness Programme

2.KOPS – Menopause Guidance Document – existing guidance for personnel, supervisors and colleagues.

3. World Menopause Day 2025 - International Menopause Society

3.HSE – Menopause Overview – information about menopause, symptoms and when to seek medical advices

4.HSE – Managing menopause symptoms – practical advice on sleep, emotional wellbeing, physical activity and symptom management

5.Department of Health – Menopause – Irish public health information about menopause and available care.

Need Support?

·Employee Support Programme with Lena by Inspire Wellbeing. Confidential support is available where stress is affecting personal wellbeing.

The right support at the right time

100% confidential

CALL 1800 817 433

KeepingOurPeopleSupported (KOPS)

·The Employee Assistance Service and peer support structures

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have any concerns about your health, please speak to your GP.

Garda National Health and Wellbeing Office — Keeping Our People Supported (KOPS)