2025 WEPs Deep-dives Series: The Unspoken Topics
The 10th session of the WEPs Deep-Dive Series and the first of 2025 focused on how discussing often-overlooked workplace challenges—such as hormonal cycles, fertility journeys, pregnancy loss and parenthood—can promote psychological safety and enhance leadership.
Veroniek Vermeulen, founder of Silatha, highlighted the significant impact that unspoken health topics have on individuals and teams, including:
● Menopause: is often misdiagnosed as burnout, despite being a life stage that affects 25% of all women, contributing to reduced productivity and engagement.
● Andropause (Male Menopause): leading to hormonal changes that can cause mood swings, fatigue, and lower productivity.
● Postnatal Depression: affecting both mothers and fathers, influencing mental health and work routines.
● PCOS and Endometriosis: impacting millions of women and frequently dismissed, leading to a lack of support.
● Pregnancy Loss: experienced in 25% of known pregnancies, yet remains a sensitive topic that many employees hesitate to share for fear of career repercussions.
● Emotional Suppression in Men: leading to increased workplace stress and lower performance, as societal expectations discourage men from openly discussing their struggles.
One of the key questions raised during the session was whether discussing these health challenges could actually widen the gap between women and men in the workplace. Vermeulen emphasized that talking about these issues does not widen the gap—it bridges it. Open conversations lead to greater understanding and support, reducing the stress associated with covering up symptoms. This, in turn, can decrease sick days and minimize the time employees feel unwell at work.
Anna Fälth, Global Head of the Women’s Empowerment Principles, posed a thought-provoking question about the origins of the stigma surrounding menstruation. In response, Vermeulen delved into the historical context, explaining that the perception of menstruation as unclean and other related stigmas have been deeply ingrained in societies for centuries. These stigmas, she noted, have been perpetuated and reinforced over time, particularly through the influence of organized religion, which often framed menstruation in negative and exclusionary terms.
A key takeaway from the webinar was the importance of fostering an open culture where employees feel safe sharing their challenges without fear of judgment. This approach helps build stronger, more cohesive teams where both genders thrive. When leaders take the time to understand their teams' real-life experiences, they can provide more effective support, build trust, and ultimately boost performance. Even small steps—such as adjusting workplace policies or normalizing open conversations—can significantly improve employee well-being and team dynamics.
Watch the full recording here: https://youtu.be/MG4QCIPt3po