The day-ruining nature of migraine attacks is a fact of life for many people who have the condition.
Lets be honest: For many people, navigating family dynamics can be tricky in general.
Someone can look healthy on the outside but be suffering greatly from this sometimes-disabling illness.
Good Studio/Adobe Stock/Amanda K Bailey
But opening up the conversation can lead to better relationships for everybody.
Plus, you’re free to help your family helpyouin the moments when you need that most.
So how do you start these conversations?
We spoke with experts to learn what they recommend.
Wait until youre not in the middle of an attack.
Migraine attacks are tough enough without the added stress of feeling like you have to explain yourself.
Its best to save important conversations for when migraine symptoms arent muddling your thoughts or causing you pain.
Start by asking questions.
Focus on the symptoms that affect you the most.
Offer to bring them to one of your doctor appointments.
Get clever about talking to kids.
That doesnt mean you shouldnt involve them though!
Dr. Klenofsky suggests using playtime and storytelling through dolls to help explain migraine to young children.
Dr. Moskatel has migraine himself, and he often tells his son if he needs to rest.
He also tries to come up with solutions that work for both of them.
Conversations about migraine dont have to only focus on the downsides.
Dr. Klenofsky recommends highlighting successful people who have migraine to help normalize the condition.
It shows that this is not a disease for a weak person and can affect anyone.
Enlist some outside help if you or your family members are having difficulty coping.
And you might have big feelings about your condition and how it affects you and your family.
Many [people with migraine]feel guilt over limitationsin activities, Dr. Klenofsky says.
Family members may feel burdened by extra housework or sadness over their loved one missing things.
A whole grab bag of emotions here is completely normalfor you and for the people who love you.
