For many people, migraine is still misunderstood as “just a headache.” But for those living with it, migraine can take over entire days — sometimes even weeks — disrupting work, family life, and the simplest daily routines.
In a recent Disability Matters interview, John Comiskey spoke with Naomi Thornton from Migraine Ireland, who shared insight into the reality of living with migraine and the importance of support.
More Than Pain
Migraine is a complex neurological condition that affects how the brain processes information. While intense head pain is one of the most recognised symptoms, many people also experience nausea, visual disturbances (known as aura), dizziness, sensitivity to light and sound, and even cognitive difficulties such as “brain fog.”
What makes migraine particularly challenging is its unpredictability. Attacks can come on suddenly, often triggered by factors like stress, lack of sleep, environmental stimuli, or hormonal changes. For many, this uncertainty creates anxiety and makes planning everyday life difficult.
A Hidden Struggle
In Ireland, migraine affects hundreds of thousands of people, yet it remains largely invisible. Many individuals continue to push through their symptoms, often feeling that their condition is not taken seriously.
Naomi highlights that this lack of understanding can lead to isolation:
People often feel they have to “just get on with it,” even when they are struggling.
Men, in particular, may be less likely to seek help, sometimes waiting until symptoms become more severe. At the same time, migraine is more frequently diagnosed in women, partly due to hormonal influences.
Finding the Right Support
One of the most important steps for anyone experiencing migraine symptoms is to seek medical advice. Proper diagnosis is essential, as migraine can present in many different ways and may be confused with other conditions.
Beyond clinical care, support organisations like Migraine Ireland provide vital services, including:
- An information and support line
- Educational webinars and expert talks
- Self-management programmes
- A peer support community
These services help people better understand their condition and feel less alone in managing it.
Small Steps That Make a Difference
Managing migraine often involves understanding personal triggers and building supportive daily habits. Naomi points to a simple framework — “SEEDS” — which can help:
- Sleep: maintaining regular sleep patterns
- Exercise: gentle, consistent activity
- Eat: regular, balanced meals
- Diary: tracking symptoms and triggers
- Stress: recognising and managing stress levels
While these steps cannot eliminate migraine entirely, they can make it more manageable and give people a greater sense of control.
The Power of Shared Experience
Perhaps the most powerful message from the conversation is the importance of connection. Migraine can be isolating, but speaking to others who truly understand can be transformative.
Support groups and community spaces allow people to share experiences, learn from one another, and feel heard — often for the first time.
You’re Not Alone
Migraine may take over at times, but with the right information, medical support, and community, it does not have to define a person’s life.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, reaching out — whether to a GP or to organisations like Migraine Ireland — is a powerful first step toward understanding and managing the condition.
Because behind every migraine story is a person who deserves to be heard, supported, and understood.
Learn More: migraine.ie & Beyond the Headache: Pascal Derrien Explains the Complex Reality of Migraine
This interview aired on Disability Matters on 92.5 Phoenix FM, a programme produced by Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL).
Tune in to Disability Matters Thursdays at 4PM | Repeats: Mon 3AM, Tue 3AM & 7AM | Also available on Mixcloud and on bcil.ie/radio.
Compiled by Valentyna Hordiichuk