Blog. Supporting Wellbeing in Hospitality: Why Menopause and Andropause Need a Holistic Approach

December 05, 2025 | Author Jeremy Gibson

 

For thousands working in hospitality, midlife health changes like menopause and andropause touch every part of their lives. Symptoms don’t clock out at the end of a shift: hot flushes, fatigue, insomnia, joint pain, anxiety, changes in mood and concentration - these all affect how someone feels at work, at home, and in their confidence and motivation every day.

Yet far too often, these challenges are faced alone. The reality is that physical and emotional symptoms are still heavily stigmatised. Many employees soldier-on in silence, worried about being judged, misunderstood, or even overlooked for opportunities. 

Meanwhile, access to medical advice can be limited: traditional GP appointments are increasingly difficult to book, and wait times continually stretched. For those navigating unpredictable rotas or covering busy shifts, securing a doctor’s appointment can feel out of reach.

Midlife Health

The impact - more than just work

The real toll of untreated menopause, andropause, or other hormonal changes is deeply personal. Sleep loss can make it harder to cope with long hours. Brain fog creates frustration and stress. Pain and emotional changes reduce resilience, while even small tasks may feel overwhelming. When support doesn't arrive soon enough, both mental and physical health can spiral, affecting relationships, self-esteem, and wellbeing far beyond the workplace.

For hospitality employers, these hidden struggles often translate into higher absence, reduced productivity and engagement, and preventable staff turnover. But more importantly, it means the people in your team may be suffering without the help they need.

Holistic support - how Hospitality Action’s EAP makes a difference

Hospitality Action’s Employee Assistance Programme is designed to meet these challenges head-on - providing practical, confidential, 24/7 support for every person, whatever their stage of life.

  • Round-the-clock confidential access: Employees can connect with trained counsellors any time, to talk openly about symptoms, stress, or how they're feeling - without stigma or judgement.
  • Wellbeing platform and lifestyle coaching: Digital resources and advice available through the EAP support nutrition, physical activity, relaxation, and wellbeing - all important in managing hormonal changes.
  • Virtual GP appointments (Wellbeing Plus and Total Wellbeing): No need for long waits - employees can book a GP consultation at a time that suits their schedule from anywhere, discuss symptoms, get advice and referrals quickly.
  • Menopause-specific resources: Info sheets, dedicated guidance on menopause and wider hormonal health from our partners NEST. And fitness/training plans tailored for menopause support are included in the wellbeing platform, making personalised help easy to access.
  • On-demand learning: Employees and managers can watch back October’s World Menopause Day webinar and other wellbeing events as part of our ongoing Wellbeing Series – with monthly webinars on key health issues for men and women, available live and on demand through the platform.
  • Practical advice for managers: Hospitality Action’s EAP offers practical guidance, reporting, and a dedicated advice line to help managers support team members facing hormonal health challenges - ensuring no one is left to struggle alone.

This holistic package means your team is supported as whole people - not just employees, addressing physical health concerns, emotional wellbeing, and their personal circumstances together.

Start the Conversation That Could Change Everything.

Take action today to safeguard your team’s wellbeing and protect your bottom line.

From stigma to support: building an inclusive workplace

Supporting hormonal health openly is not just about ticking a wellbeing box - it’s about creating a culture where staff feel truly seen and valued. When employees are empowered to access help, and managers understand the impact of menopausal or andropausal symptoms, everyone benefits.

  • Reduces absence and presenteeism
  • Supports better wellbeing, morale, engagement and loyalty
  • Boosts your reputation as an employer who truly cares

Everyone’s needs are unique. Hospitality Action’s EAP is there to meet your team where they are - with expert, practical support that adapts to life’s challenges, whenever they arise.

Want to know more about our wellbeing packages or how Virtual GP access can support your team?

Contact the EAP team at eap@hospitalityaction.org.uk or use our online enquiry form above.