What is migraine and why does it concern us

Migraine is not just a simple headache. It is a chronic neurological condition characterized by intense pain, usually on one side of the head, and often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and difficulty concentrating. Attacks can last from several hours to several days, making it difficult or even impossible for individuals to function professionally.

Migraine affects approximately 12% of the global population and ranks among the leading causes of lost workplace productivity. Nevertheless, it is often underestimated, misunderstood, or ignored.

Who is most affected

The condition primarily affects people of working age, between 25 and 55 years old, with women being more likely to experience migraines than men—at a ratio of about 3 to 1. This is mainly linked to hormonal fluctuations related to the female cycle. Factors such as chronic stress, lack of sleep, poor diet, dehydration, excessive screen exposure, loud noises, or intense lighting can act as triggers for migraine episodes.

Many patients have a family history of migraine, suggesting a genetic predisposition. Often, sufferers struggle to explain what they’re going through, since the symptoms are not always visible, leading to a lack of understanding and support.

Migraine and work: How daily life is affected

Professional life can be especially challenging for those who suffer from migraines. Attacks may be unpredictable and lead to absences from work. Even when someone shows up at the workplace during a migraine episode, their ability to perform is significantly impaired.

Employees may experience reduced concentration, difficulty making decisions, irritability, fatigue, and often anxiety about being perceived as ineffective. The phenomenon of “presenteeism”—being physically present at work without being truly productive—is particularly common among those with migraines.

Additionally, the social environment often lacks the necessary understanding, which can lead to isolation or even stigma. Those affected may avoid talking about their condition out of fear of being seen as “difficult,” “sensitive,” or “uncooperative.”

What employers can do

Supporting employees with migraines is not just an act of compassion, but also a smart human resources strategy. Understanding and flexibility from the employer help foster a healthy workplace culture and enhance employee engagement and performance.

The first step is education. When management and teams understand the nature of migraine, a more inclusive environment is created. Employees feel safe to speak about their condition and ask for support without fear for their professional prospects.

Employers can implement practices such as flexible schedules, the possibility of remote work, adapting the physical workspace to reduce stimuli (e.g., harsh lighting, noise), and creating quiet rest areas. Additionally, access to healthcare services and employee assistance programs enhances well-being and contributes to prevention.

Above all, it is essential to cultivate a climate of open communication and trust. When people feel they don’t have to hide their pain, they become more honest, more consistent, and more committed.

Our responsibility toward an invisible reality

Migraine is a real challenge—not only for the individual experiencing it, but also for the work environment in which they live and operate. As long as we continue to ignore or underestimate it, we remain far from truly caring for the health and performance of our people.

Organizations that invest in understanding and supporting employees with migraines benefit from increased compassion, respect, and, ultimately, greater effectiveness. Health in the workplace is not a privilege—it is a fundamental right and a shared responsibility.

Sources:

World Health Organization (WHO) – Headache disorders
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/headache-disorders

Global Burden of Disease Study (2019) – Headache disorders remain among top 10 causes of disability worldwide
https://www.thelancet.com/gbd

International Headache Society (IHS) – Classification and diagnosis of migraine
https://ichd-3.org

American Migraine Foundation – Migraine in the Workplace: Impact and Solutions
https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/migraine-in-the-workplace

Steiner TJ, Stovner LJ, Vos T. (2016) – Migraine is first cause of disability in under 50s: will health politicians now take notice?
The Journal of Headache and Pain, 17:104
https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-016-0699-5

Radtke A. et al. (2012) – Headache-related presenteeism and absenteeism in the workplace: a cross-sectional analysis.
Cephalalgia, 32(6), 462–470.
https://doi.org/10.1177/0333102412440190

Work Foundation (2022) – Working with migraine: How employers can better support people with migraine at work
https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/work-foundation/publications