The Australian government and health organizations are taking significant steps to support workers suffering from endometriosis, a debilitating chronic condition affecting approximately one in seven women in the country. This week, Endometriosis Australia launched a workplace accreditation scheme aimed at reducing stigma and improving understanding of the condition within the workforce.
Rachel Eleanor Hosking, a 23-year-old PhD student and part-time retail worker, highlighted the challenges of managing her endometriosis symptoms while at work. “I’ve passed out multiple times at work due to immense pain,” she shared with SBS News. For Hosking, standing for extended periods exacerbates her condition, leaving her in a constant battle against debilitating pain. Despite carrying pain relief tools such as paracetamol and a TENS machine, she finds them insufficient.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, often causing chronic pain, inflammation, and various other symptoms. This condition has substantial implications for workers, with many facing difficulties in maintaining their employment due to the severity of their symptoms.
New Initiatives to Address Workplace Challenges
Monica Forlano, chair of the board at Endometriosis Australia, emphasized the need for improved workplace conditions. “We know that 70 percent of people with endo have to take unpaid time off,” she explained. The newly introduced accreditation program aims to educate employers about endometriosis, fostering an environment where employees feel safe disclosing their condition and seeking support. This initiative is particularly crucial, given that the economic cost of endometriosis in Australia is estimated to be between $7.4 billion and $9.7 billion annually, primarily due to lost productivity.
The lack of awareness surrounding endometriosis has led to significant challenges for many individuals in the workforce. A recent study conducted by Southern Cross University and Western Sydney University found that one in six workers with endometriosis lost their jobs due to their diagnosis, while one in three reported being overlooked for promotions. This highlights the pressing need for employers to be better informed about the condition.
Overcoming Stigma and Promoting Understanding
Many individuals with endometriosis face stigma and misunderstanding in the workplace. Calli Brown, a media professional, recounted her experiences, stating that discussing her symptoms was often met with shame and disbelief. “In a busy environment, you feel the pressure to be tough, and there are very few people you can turn to for support,” she noted.
The research from Southern Cross University revealed that flexible work arrangements introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic significantly contributed to increased productivity for those with endometriosis. Forlano pointed out that while these arrangements have been beneficial, the real challenge lies in fostering open conversations about the condition and breaking down the stigma associated with it.
Anna Fragkoudi, a research fellow at The University of Adelaide, also stressed the importance of visibility and understanding. “Because endometriosis is an invisible disease, managers might not recognize the need for accommodations,” she explained. This lack of recognition can lead to further complications for those managing their symptoms in a work environment.
Hosking believes that awareness is the first step towards change. “It’s crucial for both men and women to understand that period pain is not normal,” she stated. She noted that if a significant portion of the population, including men, do not comprehend the severity of endometriosis, it perpetuates a cycle of misunderstanding and stigma.
With this new accreditation scheme, Endometriosis Australia aims to empower both employers and employees, creating a more inclusive work environment for those affected by this chronic condition. As awareness grows, so too does the hope for a better understanding and improved support systems within Australian workplaces.
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