Understanding migraine
A friend with migraine may have shown you this page to read.
Sometimes people who don’t have migraine think it is ‘just a headache’. Migraine can make you feel very ill and it can affect different parts of your friend’s body; it can make their stomach or head ache, their eyes can go blurry or it can make them feel very sick. It can be upsetting, sometimes scary and it can stop your friends from doing what they want – like missing out on sleep overs / activities with you.
How can you help?
Accept your friend as they are now; please understand that it’s not ‘just a headache’ and they can’t just carry on as normal. Allow your friend to talk about their condition, feelings etc. if and when they want to. Be a good listener and try to understand how if feels for your friend. Be supportive – no-one wants to be ill and good friends can be hard to come by. Believe them when they talk about how they feel and what they can or can't do when they have a migraine.
It’s the little things
Accept that your friend may sometimes have to cancel your plans or visit if they are feeling unwell. Sometimes they feel so poorly they have to go to bed – don't take it personally. Look for areas where you can still keep in touch, for example, emailing or texting – ask your friend what’s best for them. Remember even small things can be greatly appreciated like sending a card or text when they are too unwell to see you; organise treats or plan something nice that you can both enjoy together when they are feeling a bit better.
Please click here to download an information booklet to help understand more about your friend’s migraine.