Breaking the Stigma: Why Migraine Misconceptions Matter
Migraine is one of the most misunderstood medical conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, many people hesitate to seek care due to stigma, misconceptions, and dismissive attitudes. Dr. Susan Hutchinson, Clinical Director of Haven Headache, recently appeared on the HeadWise podcast to discuss the real impact of migraine stigma and why it matters.
What Is Medical Stigma and How Does It Affect People with Migraine?
Stigma occurs when a person is defined by their illness rather than as an individual. For those living with migraine, this can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and even self-doubt. As Dr. Hutchinson explains, “When someone is defined by their medical illness rather than as an individual, that can be very consequential to their quality of life.”
One of the main reasons migraine is so stigmatized is that it is an invisible disease. Unlike a broken arm in a cast or a visible physical ailment, migraine sufferers often appear "normal" even when experiencing debilitating symptoms. Many people mistakenly believe migraine is "just a headache," failing to recognize its severe impact, which includes nausea, light sensitivity, and cognitive fog.
How Stigma Prevents People from Seeking Care
A staggering 45.1% of people with migraine hesitate to seek medical care, according to findings from the OVERCOME (US) study, a large-scale research initiative on migraine stigma. The reasons for this hesitation include:
- Fear of being dismissed or not taken seriously by healthcare providers
- Negative past experiences with doctors, coworkers, or even family members
- The misconception that migraine is a minor condition that does not require medical treatment
- Lack of insurance or financial barriers
Unfortunately, delaying care can have serious consequences. Without proper treatment, migraine can worsen over time, leading to chronic migraine, where headaches occur 15 or more days per month. As Dr. Hutchinson warns, “If you don’t have optimal treatment over time, you can transform into a much more refractory chronic migraine condition.”
Challenging the Stigma: Steps You Can Take
If you or a loved one is struggling with migraine and stigma, here’s how to take control:
- Find a Healthcare Provider Who Understands Migraine
- If your doctor minimizes your condition, seek a second opinion. Specialists in headache medicine can provide better support and up-to-date treatments.
- Join a Support Community
- Connecting with others who understand migraine can be empowering. Organizations like the National Headache Foundation (headaches.org) offer valuable resources.
- Speak Up About Migraine
- Educate those around you about the difference between a migraine and a regular headache. Sharing your experiences can help dismantle misconceptions.
- Prioritize Your Health
- Schedule an appointment specifically to discuss your migraines rather than bringing it up as an afterthought during a general check-up. This ensures you receive the attention and care you deserve.
Migraine Is a Legitimate Neurological Disease
Dr. Hutchinson's final message is one we all need to hear: “Migraine is a legitimate neurological disease. You deserve to be treated as an individual with a condition that is important to treat.”
At Haven Headache, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, expert care to those struggling with migraine. If stigma has held you back from seeking treatment, know that you are not alone—and help is available. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward better migraine management.