Mastering My Thyroid

Thyroid Health Coaching

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    • Healthy Thyroid, Thriving Team: The Impact of Thyroid Health on Employee Wellness

    Thyroid health plays a crucial role in overall wellbeing, influencing everything from energy levels to metabolism. In the fast-paced environment of the workplace, maintaining a healthy thyroid is essential for optimal performance and employee wellness. 

    Have you ever considered how improving your thyroid health could also elevate your workplace wellbeing, meaning how well you feel and perform at work?

    Could thyroid health be the missing link that teams need?

    A 2022 survey by Engage Health Group (UK) revealed that 9 in 10 employees chose health as their top and main priority, yet only one in three of those employees feel their employer is interested in, or prioritises, their mental and physical wellbeing.   

    So how can employers contribute to better health outcomes for employees?  By incorporating workplace wellbeing services (such as health coaching), companies can support their teams in achieving improved overall wellbeing and productivity. 

    A large contribution to overall health is what we eat.  Our food choices impact not just overall health and immune function support, but also contribute to energy, focus and mental wellness.  And given that we consume as much as 60% of our food and drink while working, its crucial to bring nutrition discussions into the workplace.

    Stress management, quality sleep and regular exercise is also important focus areas for overall and thyroid health.  

    Understanding Thyroid Health

    The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces hormones regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism and energy levels. When the thyroid is not functioning properly, conditions such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can arise, significantly impacting an individual’s health and work performance. 

    Symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating are common indicators of thyroid disorders that may be overlooked in a busy workplace.  People may just say it is because of a busy workload and hectic demands, while an important medical condition may go unnoticed. 

    The Importance of Thyroid Health in the Workplace

    Research indicates that employees with thyroid disorders may face increased risks of long-term sick leave and reduced productivity. 

    A study published in PubMed highlights that hyperthyroid and hypothyroid patients present a greater risk of work-related challenges due to their symptoms, which can include emotional and physical distress.

    Furthermore, employer support plays a critical role in mitigating these impacts. A study from the University of Aberdeen found that sympathetic employer behavior can significantly improve engagement levels among employees with thyroid conditions (2). 

    So how are some of the ways that good thyroid health can help you?

    Energy Levels

    Meaning better productivity.    A well-functioning thyroid helps regulate metabolism and energy production. Employees with balanced thyroid hormone levels are less likely to experience fatigue (especially that familiar energy “slump” in the afternoon).

    Mental Health

    Meaming improved focus and enjoyment of day-to-day life.  Symptoms caused by thyroid disorders include brain fog, struggle to focus, and memory problems, poor learning, depression, anxiety, and mood changes (3).  By supporting employees’ thyroid health, organizations can foster a more positive work environment.

    Immune Health

    Meaning fewer sick days…Maintaining optimal thyroid function can decrease the likelihood of long-term sick leave. With proper management of thyroid disorders, employees are more likely to maintain consistent attendance and contribute effectively to their teams.

    5 Strategies for Promoting Thyroid Health at Work

    To create a supportive workplace culture that prioritizes thyroid health, employers can implement several strategies:

    • Flexible Work Arrangements: Recognize that individuals with thyroid disorders may experience fluctuations in energy levels. Offering flexible hours or remote work options allows employees to manage their health effectively.
    • Access to Nutritional Options: Stock workplace cafeterias with healthy food choices that support thyroid function and gut health. Foods rich in iodine and selenium can help maintain healthy hormone production.
    • Wellness Programs: Implement programs focused on stress reduction through activities like yoga and meditation, which can benefit employees with thyroid issues by promoting relaxation and hormonal balance.
    • Health Education: Provide resources on recognizing symptoms of thyroid disorders and encourage open discussions about health challenges among employees.
    • Regular Health Checks: Offer access to health assessments which allows employees to evaluate and understand the role of the thyroid gland in their overall health. 

    This proactive approach enables early detection of potential issues.

    Conclusion: The Business Case for Supporting Thyroid Health

    Understanding the importance of thyroid health in the workplace is vital for creating an inclusive and supportive environment. Employers can enhance employee wellbeing and productivity by recognizing the signs of thyroid disorders and implementing wellness initiatives. A commitment to prioritizing thyroid health not only benefits individual employees but also contributes to a more engaged workforce ready to tackle challenges effectively.

    Encouraging discussions about thyroid health can help reduce the stigma around these conditions while fostering a culture that values employee wellness. As organizations increasingly recognize the link between health and productivity, supporting thyroid health is a key strategy for achieving overall workplace success. 

    References:

    1. The Impact of Thyroid Diseases on the Working Life of Patients: A Systematic Review.  Jun 2020.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32560169/
    2. Thyroid disease isn’t the end for your career prospects, new study finds. May 2024. https://www.abdn.ac.uk/news/23192/
    3. 100+ Symptoms of Hypothyroidism. Jan 2024. https://www.masteringmythyroid.com/100-symptoms-of-hypothyroidism/
    Adele du Rand
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