Migraine Misery
The hidden toll of migraines in the workplace and solutions to create a more inclusive and productive environment for sufferers.
3 minutes to read
Few health conditions are as misunderstood, yet as pervasive, as migraines. Often dismissed as mere headaches, migraines are a neurological disorder affecting over 1 billion people globally, including 10 million in the UK. Over 1 million people live with chronic migraines, meaning they experience headaches for at least 15 days a month for more than three months, eight of which are migraines. Their impact is profound: migraines are the second leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide, according to the World Health Organisation, and cost the global economy billions annually in lost productivity. Rethinking workplace design and policies could transform lives while boosting productivity.
The Weight of the Problem
Migraines are more than just pain. They often come with debilitating symptoms, including sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, weakness on one side of the body, dizziness and visual disturbances. Furthermore, there are potential significant mental health impacts for long-term sufferers. The workplace, with its fluorescent lighting, noise, and long screen hours, can act as a perfect storm of triggers. A study by the Migraine Trust found that 49% of migraine sufferers say the condition harms their ability to work, with absenteeism and presenteeism—working despite reduced productivity—taking a heavy toll. In the UK alone, 43 million days are lost yearly from education and work due to migraines, costing the UK economy an estimated £9.2 billion.
Yet, awareness remains woefully low. Migraines often lack visible symptoms, leading to misunderstanding. Many employees feel compelled to hide their struggles, fearing being perceived as unprofessional or unreliable.
Designing for Relief
The modern workplace is ripe for reform. Thoughtful design can help mitigate migraine triggers and create a more inclusive environment. Start with lighting—one of the most common triggers. Swapping harsh fluorescent bulbs for softer, adjustable LED lighting can make a dramatic difference, along with lighting control at an individual desk level. Similarly, ensuring access to natural light has been shown to reduce stress and fatigue, benefiting all employees, not just migraine sufferers, although this must be balanced against being able to control glare.
Noise control is another key area. Open-plan offices may foster collaboration, but they can be a nightmare for those prone to migraines. Acoustic panels or designated quiet zones or wellness rooms can provide much-needed respite. Temperature regulation is critical; sudden fluctuations or poorly ventilated spaces can trigger migraines.
Digital design also matters. Extended screen time is a known culprit. Providing anti-glare screens and adjustable monitors and encouraging regular breaks can help mitigate the risk. Employers can even adopt blue-light filters to reduce strain from devices.
Ergonomic furniture and workstation set-up is another area to consider. Correct posture is important, because a stiff neck or back can trigger symptoms. Other areas of focus include adequate ventilation and filtered air to remove odours and even paint colours, with softer colours reducing glare and creating a more calming environment.
The Bigger Picture
The need for change is clear. Migraines are not rare or niche, and they are costing businesses money. The solutions are neither expensive nor radical. By investing in thoughtful design and inclusive policies, employers can go along to alleviate the suffering of millions and unlock a more productive, healthier workforce.
Migraines have been hiding in plain sight in the workplace for too long. It’s time for businesses to bring them out of the shadows and into the design brief.