From the Community: What I Wish Others Knew About Migraine

If you live with a chronic condition, you know how hard it can be for others to understand. The Bezzy Migraine community gets it.

If you have chronic migraine, it can often feel like your friends, family, and co-workers don’t understand what you’re going through. It can be isolating to feel like those around you can’t comprehend your experiences.

And while your loved ones probably mean well, misguided comments and suggestions can make you feel even more alone.

Here at Bezzy Migraine, we get what you’re going through. Members of the community shared what they wish others understood about migraine.

Join the free Migraine community!

Connect with thousands of members and find support through daily live chats, curated resources, and one-to-one messaging.

Sign up

They’re not just ‘bad headaches’

“A migraine is not ‘just a bad headache.’ Migraine can have a variety of forms and side effects.

For example, the left side of my face will go numb, and my left eye may droop. Also, my speech can be affected, and I mean to say one thing and say something else, and I may or may not realize it.

Medications don’t ‘heal’ a migraine. They may help it be easier to deal with, but often, once the medication wears off, the migraine pain comes back.” — Anonymous

The world can seem like an unfriendly place

“Migraine is more than just the hours/days we’re having an attack. Many of us have symptoms daily: Things like brain fog, dizziness, trouble talking, and light, sound, and scent sensitivity [which makes the world seem like a very unfriendly place], to name a few.

If we’re reluctant to make plans, it’s because things that most people take for granted, we have to navigate around to avoid an attack.” — Eileen, Bezzy Migraine Guide

We’re constantly working through the pain

“My chronic migraine never goes away. I’m trying to participate in my life, but that means I work when I’m hurting. Try to be understanding, not judging. When I’m talking to you, and I forget your name or sound like I’ve been drinking, I haven’t. If I miss a day, know that I physically cannot lift my head from the pillow.” — Misskim

Traveling is exhausting

“Before my migraine disorder started, I could travel around the world without a second thought. My biggest worry was getting through security and making my flight on time.

But for someone who experiences extreme motion sensitivity as a migraine symptom, it involves a lot of extra work and planning.

Not only do you have to pack accordingly, making sure your medications are all in order, but we also have to pack motion sickness bands, earplugs to alleviate pressure changes, headphones to go over those earplugs, and essential oils. Even where you sit on the plane can play a huge factor in how you feel.” — Alicia Wolf, 6 Things I Wish People Understood About Migraine

The takeaway

When you have an invisible illness like chronic migraine, it can be difficult to explain your condition to others. It’s not always obvious when you’re in pain.

The Bezzy Migraine community gets it. Feeling seen, heard, and understood can make a huge difference in your health journey.

Talking with your loved ones about your condition can go a long way in improving your overall well-being. And as always, we’re here for you at Bezzy.