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Thyroid symptoms and support tips

Foster open communication and create a supportive environment where colleagues feel comfortable discussing health concerns and requesting necessary accommodations.

Thyroid disease can impact individuals in various ways, from mild symptoms to severe, life-altering conditions. This page includes ways to support your colleagues.

Symptoms	Support tips
Fatigue and energy levels Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause extreme fatigue and fluctuations in energy levels throughout the day, affecting concentration, productivity and self-confidence.	Discuss energy patterns with your colleague, to understand their work preferences. Offering flexible hours allows them to work when they are most productive.
Mental health Depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairments are common in thyroid disease, affecting mood motivation and performance.	Acknowledge any emotional fluctuations and offer flexibility or support where needed. Encourage open conversations about how their mental health is affected by their medical condition. Flexible work hours can enable your colleagues to work when they are most productive; (temporary) workload reallocation should be considered to reduce work-related stress.
Physical symptoms Weight changes, muscle weakness and other physical symptoms can impact a colleague’s ability to perform certain tasks.	Be sensitive to their individual needs in this area. Make it easier for them to discuss any limitations in relation to their job responsibilities. If necessary, be prepared to consider adjustments in workload allocations.
Medical appointments and treatment Managing thyroid disease often requires regular medical appointments, blood tests, and sometimes complex treatments that can need time off work.	Allow flexibility for medical appointments. Ensure that absence policies recognise the need for extended treatments when necessary.