Andropause and the Workplace: Supporting Men’s Health and Well-being

For many men, navigating andropause symptoms while maintaining a career can feel overwhelming. Hormonal changes can impact energy levels, focus, mood, and overall confidence—all of which play a role in professional life. While discussions around menopause in the workplace are becoming more common, conversations about andropause remain limited.

At Kindbody, we believe it’s time to normalise men’s health in the workplace and provide practical ways to support employees experiencing andropause-related challenges.

How Andropause Can Affect Work Performance

The symptoms of andropause vary from person to person, but some of the most common ways it can impact work life include:

• Fatigue and Low Energy: Persistent tiredness can make long workdays and meetings feel draining.
• Mood Changes: Increased irritability or low mood can affect communication and collaboration.
• Cognitive Changes: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or “brain fog” can make it harder to complete tasks.
• Sleep Disruptions: Poor sleep can lead to decreased productivity and make coping with daily demands more difficult.

These changes are normal but can affect performance and confidence if left unaddressed.

Creating a Supportive Workplace Environment

Workplaces that foster open communication and support employee well-being can help reduce stigma and encourage men to seek the support they need. Here’s how organisations can create an inclusive environment for employees experiencing andropause:

1. Normalise Health Conversations

• Encourage open discussions about health and well-being that include men’s experiences.
• Introduce men’s health talks or wellness workshops to provide education and resources.

2. Implement Flexible Work Options

• Allow flexible hours or remote working when possible to accommodate days when employees feel fatigued.
• Provide options for shorter, more manageable shifts or “focus hours” where fewer meetings are scheduled.

3. Provide Access to Health Resources

• Share information about men’s health support services, such as local clinics, counselling, and wellness programs.
• Ensure that Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) include services for emotional well-being and stress management.

Self-Care Strategies for Navigating Work During Andropause

While workplace support is important, self-care practices can also help you manage symptoms and improve work-life balance:

1. Take Regular Breaks

• Short breaks throughout the day can help refresh your mind and combat fatigue.
• Try a quick walk or a few minutes of mindful breathing to reset.

2. Prioritise Key Tasks

• Identify your most important tasks and schedule them during your peak energy times.
• Avoid overcommitting and delegate when possible.

3. Maintain Healthy Boundaries

• Set clear boundaries between work and personal time to prevent burnout.
• Create an end-of-day routine that signals the transition from work mode to relaxation.

4. Stay Active

• Gentle exercise, such as stretching at your desk or taking a lunchtime walk, can boost energy and improve focus.

How Colleagues and Managers Can Offer Support

A supportive workplace culture requires empathy and understanding from colleagues and leadership alike.

• For Managers: Foster open communication by checking in regularly with employees. Let them know it’s okay to discuss challenges without fear of judgment.
• For Colleagues: Show patience and offer support when a teammate mentions they’re facing health-related challenges. Simple gestures like offering to cover a meeting or sharing resources can make a big difference.

Breaking the Stigma

Just as menopause is becoming recognised as an important topic in workplace wellness, it’s time to include andropause in those conversations. Breaking the stigma around men’s health can lead to more inclusive workplaces where everyone feels valued and supported.