What's Happening?
November marks Diabetes Awareness Month, highlighting the challenges faced by millions of employees living with diabetes. According to a global survey by Insulet, 79% of people with diabetes have encountered
bias or misunderstanding at work, with over a third experiencing workplace-related anxiety. HR leaders are encouraged to develop policies and cultures that support employees with diabetes, fostering an environment where they can thrive. This includes educating the workforce, integrating flexibility into workplace policies, and providing practical accommodations such as private spaces for glucose monitoring and accessible healthy food options. Training managers to lead with empathy and curiosity is also emphasized, as one in three employees feels uncomfortable discussing health issues with their managers.
Why It's Important?
Supporting employees with diabetes is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage for organizations. By fostering an inclusive culture, companies can boost employee engagement, reduce turnover, and build trust. This approach benefits all employees, including those without diabetes, by promoting empathy and understanding. Flexible workplace policies and accommodations can alleviate stress for employees managing diabetes, enhancing productivity and overall well-being. As diabetes management often requires regular monitoring and medical appointments, accommodating these needs signals respect for health requirements and contributes to a positive workplace environment.
What's Next?
HR professionals are encouraged to implement awareness campaigns and training sessions to educate employees about diabetes. Insulet's Diabetes Awareness Month campaign, 'The Day Diabetes Showed Up to Work,' offers resources and community stories to support this initiative. Additionally, diaTribe's dStigmatize toolkit provides practical guidance for supporting employees living with diabetes and their caregivers. By embedding awareness, flexibility, and empathy into workplace policies, HR leaders can ensure that employees with diabetes and their supporters thrive, while colleagues without diabetes become compassionate allies.
Beyond the Headlines
The emphasis on supporting employees with diabetes highlights broader issues of workplace inclusivity and the importance of addressing health-related stigma. By promoting visibility and leadership advocacy, organizations can reduce stigma and foster a culture of openness. Senior leaders sharing personal stories and endorsing health initiatives can set a tone of acceptance and understanding, encouraging employees to become allies and contribute to a truly inclusive workplace.
