Migraine Awareness Week: helping to tackle misconceptions about migraines.
21st – 27th September 2026 is Migraine Awareness Week. an opportunity to raise awareness of migraines and the impact it can have on peoples everyday lives.
Migraines affect around 10,000 people in Dagenham and Rainham, that’s around 1 in 7 people in the UK who live with migraines – yet it is still widely misunderstood and can be dismissed as ‘a bad headache.’ When, in reality, migraines are a complex neurological condition that can affect peoples ability to work, study, socialise and carry out everyday activities.
This year, The Migraine Trust’s #BelieveMe campaign is highlighting the importance of listening to and believing people who are living with migraines. Its research has found that many people with migraines feel that their experinces are not taken seriously when seeking healthcare and in the workplace.
The Migraine Trust’s latest research, released today, shows that:
- 90% of people with migraine have not felt believed when speaking about its impact
- 32% have not felt believed in the workplace and 20% have not felt believed in healthcare settings
- 72% say that not being believed has had a negative impact on their mental health.
Meanwhile, helpline data suggests worsening mental health among people with migraine. Callers mentioning suicidal thoughts rose by 54% in the last six months and almost trebled year-on-year, up 270%
How you can help
- Research the findings of The Migraine Trust’s research in your newsletter or in the local press. Here is a press release that will be useful.
- Contacts the Migraine Trust at campaigns@migrainetrust.org if you would like to learn more.