Associations of menopausal symptoms with job-related stress and social support in Japanese school teachers

Abstract

Objectives

Being a school teacher is highly stressful. This study aimed to clarify the prevalence of menopausal symptoms and explore the association between these symptoms and job-related stress among Japanese school teachers.

Study design

A cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected elementary and junior high school teachers in Japan. Data from 284 teachers aged 45–60 years were analyzed.

Main outcome measures

Menopausal symptoms were measured using the Greene Climacteric Scale, and the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire was used to assess job stressors, social support, and job/family satisfaction. Associations between scores on the Greene Climacteric Scale and on the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire, and demographic information were analyzed.

Results

The most common menopausal symptom was “feeling tired or lacking in energy” (reported by 94.4 % of respondents). The total intensity of menopausal, psychological, and somatic symptoms was significantly correlated with the total level of job stress. Moderate correlations were found between depressive symptoms and job stress regarding suitable jobs, job control, and rewarding jobs, while weak correlations were evident between depressive symptoms and job stress regarding quantitative job overload, interpersonal conflict, and poor physical environment. Higher levels of perceived support from supervisors or co-workers and job satisfaction were associated with less severe psychological and somatic symptoms.

Conclusions

Most middle-aged school teachers felt tired or lacking in energy. Higher job-related stress and lower levels of support from supervisors or co-workers were correlated with more severe menopausal symptoms. A supportive work environment and stress management are essential for such teachers.