A survey by Migraine Action found nearly one third (30%) feel unable to obtain or keep full-time work because of the symptoms of migraine. Of those working, three quarters (74%) feel judged if they need to take time off due to migraine and around one in three (30%) feel that their colleagues treat their condition with cynicism.
To help ‘migraineurs’ in the workplace, Migraine Action has launched a new 'migraine in the workplace' information pack.
Lee Tomkins, director of Migraine Action, said: "Migraine remains much misunderstood and can often be treated with a lack of sympathy or even cynicism, especially by work colleagues who may on occasions have to cover when individuals have an attack. Many migraineurs worry how negatively their condition is viewed in the workplace and, especially in the current economic climate, some have very real fears for their jobs. Yet, with a little understanding and support, many migraineurs are able to fulfil their career ambitions and be regarded as valued colleagues.
"While our new information pack gives advice to those experiencing real difficulties at work, its primary aim is to help migraineurs and their colleagues and employer to work together to minimise the impact of migraine in the workplace. Often very simple steps, such as maintaining good lighting and ventilation, and enabling colleagues to have access to water throughout the day, can make a huge difference and could help to reduce the estimated 25 million working days which are currently lost each year to the condition".
Three tips for employers:
- Many migraineurs are light sensitive. Fit blinds to avoid bright sunlight and maintain lighting to minimise flickering. Adding anti-glare filters to computers can also really help
- If a colleague is affected by migraine, arrange a meeting to discuss how you can support them. For example, some migraineurs find strong smells can trigger an attack. Simply asking colleagues to avoid strong perfume or aftershave could be a key way to prevent attacks at work
- Encourage an environment of understanding at your organisation. Many migraineurs try to 'battle on' at the onset of an attack for fear that others will think they are letting them down. However, in most cases this will make the attack worse. By feeling able to take action early (such resting in a quiet / darkened room and / or taking medication) a colleague may be able to abort the attack quickly and get back to work
