Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, is supporting Migraine Awareness Week (23rd-29th September) to call attention to the serious impact that migraine has on people living with this condition and the need for better migraine care.
Released this week, research by The Migraine Trust has found high numbers of people with migraine report not being believed or taken seriously, including in employment and when accessing healthcare. Over half of respondents say their mental health has been significantly affected as a result of living with migraine and sadly a third had had thoughts of suicide.
90% of people with the condition believed that most people think migraine is just a bad headache. Migraine is a common condition, affecting around 10 million people in the UK. Symptoms of a migraine attack can include head pain, nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to lights, sounds or smells and fatigue. Around one-third of people will experience aura before an oncoming migraine attack, most commonly in the form of visual disturbances.
Rebecca Smith stated:
“We are seeing a stark picture of the reality for many who live with migraine. I first encountered the Migraine Trust in February when I met with local Plymstock resident Selina and learned about her first-hand experiences.
“It is far more than just a headache. Not being taken seriously is having a significant impact on the lives of those with the condition. Many speak of social stigma, as well as poor understanding of migraine, and it’s clear that these are contributory factors to the wellbeing challenges faced by people living with migraine. Selina taught me that it is essential that we change the perception of migraine and increase understanding about the true impact of living with the condition.”
View the Migrane Trust's support here.
