The Long-Term Impact of Chronic Migraine

By Holly Harding

1 min read

People who live with chronic migraine for years often experience far-reaching repercussions of the condition. From physical wear and tear to social and professional impacts, chronic migraine can be traumatic and creates widespread change in our lives.

How has migraine affected Holly's life?

In this video, Holly, (who has lived with chronic migraine for over 20 years after 25 years of episodic migraine) shares her thoughts on some of the long-term impacts of the condition.

In the comment section below, please share with us some of the ways that chronic migraine has changed your life. We look forward to learning from your well-earned wisdom and thank you for being a part of our community.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Migraine.com team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
This is an incredible message Holly! Thanks so much for opening this conversation. I agree living with migraine is such a messy road. I started getting migraines in elementary school. I think it's only because the fact that I would get so physically sick with each one that it got the attention that I needed to get a proper diagnosis. So to a certain extent I really don't remember a time in my life when I didn't have to worry about migraines. They would always be in the back of my mind during slumber parties as a girl, then during all the social activities during college and eventually into the working world and now as a momma. What I can say throughout all of those years is that it really has made me a strong advocate for my health and now for my family's health. So that has definitely been a strength. It also has reminded me to slow down - I'm still a work in progress on this. I'm such a driven person that it's hard not to feel held back at times from migraine, but in the end they do help me live a more balanced life I suppose. Thanks again so much for the great video and for the question. It's been a great self reflection! I can't wait to read other's reflections now too!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Alene L. Brennan, RYT" user-id="3663804"/> - Thank you so much for your kind words and sharing how this piece resonated with you. I love what you said about how this condition has inspired you to become a health advocate for yourself and others. That is definitely a positive! We're so glad you're on our team to help advocate for the community. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
azreynolds Member
<inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> I will try to post in response to your latest message, and I will copy this message and repost anything that gets chopped off this tome. LOL The long-term impact of migraine for me has been completely losing my life as it was...I mean completely! As I tried to say in the last message that we had from you about the ways migraine had changed our lives, I lost my job in 2015 due to the migraines caused by the strong detergents, lost ALL of my friends, and have limited contact with the outside world. My social network now are my doctors, pharmacists, the PAs and the nurses where I get epidurals and RFAs that I have to do just to get through my chronic pain. Currently because of the shortages of medications, my ketamine infusions will not be taking place on a monthly basis anymore, so no more help there. Since my migraines were brought on by a head injury to the back of my head at the age of 8, my vision was seriously affected by that fall and my vision continues to cause migraines for me. Getting glasses that help me deal with my balance and my double vision has been a challenge after having cataract surgery, thereby increasing my migraines for now. Hopefully we'll be able to iron this out eventually. After my faceplant back in June, I went back to having daily migraines, and my hyperosmia has also increased, causing me to retreat back into isolation just as I used to live before Aimovig and binasal occlusion glasses helped me regain some of my old life. I guess I need to be happy that I still can wear N95 masks and be able to be around people to some degree. In a way, I wish I had never improved, because prior to that, I had found a way to be happy in my isolation. But having a taste of socializing this past year, it makes me yearn to have that back again. Perhaps the future can improve, but I know my attitude is what will get me through this newest round of daily migraines! So I need to put my Pollyanna glasses back on and get back to work on being positive.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="azreynolds" user-id="3677307"/> Hello my dear Annzie. So glad for your post here. I really feel for you having tasted a glimpse of better health just to have it snuffed out by your fall. Very harsh turn of events. I also completely understand the reality of having a social circle that is comprised of health professionals. If we are lucky enough, we encounter compassion and kindness in those who care for us. Those traits can be harder to find in casual relationships/friendships. Your post is a great and realistic illustration of the way that migraine can be a long and winding road - nonlinear as I said in the video. I know you will reconnect with your joy shots soon enough. In the meantime, I'm sending you extra love and support and hope you'll keep in touch. Much love, Holly (migraine.com team).
CommunityMember3880796 Member
I woke up one morning in 2018 with full left side numbness and coughing up blood. I had never had any sort of migraine before this happened. I stayed sick for months I mean a kind of sick thats not normal. Vertigo, weakness, just an all over feeling of exhaustion and being unwell. Then the migraine started and once they started they never stopped. In 2020 I had a heart attack and in 2022 I had another heart attack all based off the same feeling I had in 2018. I have fought for years now with multiple Dr's and tried all preventative and abortive meds there are and they all either made it worse or did nothing. I have quit 2 jobs because of the constant pain and debilitating effects of this chronic condition. It took me a long time to accept that I would be like this forever. Once I accepted it and stopped searching for answers it became less stressful and a lot less anxiety. Broken does not mean dead.
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember3880796" user-id="3880796"/> On my goodness - you've been through so much. Thank you for sharing your very personal journey with us. You probably are tired of seeing doctors, but I do wonder if its time to seek out help from a doctor who is a true expert in treating migraine and headache disease. General neurologists may be fine doctors but have a hard time being experts in one area because they treat many conditions such as stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's and more. A true migraine/headache disease doctor treats migraine and headache all day, every day and have additional certification in headache medicine not all general neurologists have. Here is more information on how these doctors are different and how to find one; <a href='https://migraine.com/blog/really-find-headache-specialist' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/blog/really-find-headache-specialist/</a> <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/neurologist-vs-specialist' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/neurologist-vs-specialist</a> <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/change-thoughts-new-care' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/change-thoughts-new-care</a> I hope this information is beneficial - will you let me know what you think? Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team 
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember3880796" user-id="3880796"/> Love your post and appreciate your sharing. I so agree that our limited energy can be freed up when we stop spending it fighting a disease for which there is no cure. I understand the sobering reality of coming to terms and making peace with that fact. I'm sorry you have been up against such serious health concerns and issues on top of migraine. Having to part ways with our the impact of migraine on our careers is another hard hit. I understand feeling "done" with seeking relief from medications that are not working or causing more trouble than good. Personally, I go in and out of having the energy to seek and try out new treatments. That process is extremely demanding which people who don't live with chronic health conditions cannot understand. This link addresses that exhausting process: <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/trying-new-treatments-beginning-stages' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/trying-new-treatments-beginning-stages</a>. Perhaps a desire to try new treatments may resurface for you at some point. For me, on top of coming to peace with having migraine- it was also freeing to stop looking for that cure that doesn't exist and instead changing that goal post to find treatments that may help to offset this or that symptom of migraine. Coupling treatments together (botox and emgality) has helped slightly decrease the severity of my attacks (not the frequency). It's quite a journey and takes so much energy, time, and patience. You are not alone in what you are navigating. We're so glad you're with us to share the wisdom you have earned along the way. Please keep in touch. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
Mare2 Member
Hi its Mare. When I both listen to you and read your articles I can assure that you are truly understood. The person I was before becoming chronic with this disease is not the person I use to be. As with you, I lost my career (by my choice of quitting) and several yrs before I wanted to retire by my own choice. My social circle is a real challenge and your words identify clearly with me. To think of a migraine as head pain is far from true as this disease has plagued my entire body with pain and exhaustion. I just want to say how much your articles mean to me Holly. 
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 Hi <inline-mention username="Mare2" user-id="3924864"/> Thank you for sharing you kind words and sharing your difficult journey with us. Holly is truly wonderful and so very compassionate. We're here for you. I'm sending you pain free wishes, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team 
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Mare2" user-id="3924864"/> Dearest Mare - your comment means so much to me. I'm moved to hear that you resonate with what I've written and shared. You are SO right that migraine is more that a bad headache (which is an unfortunately widely-held belief). It is, in fact, a comprehensive neurological disease with wide-ranging impacts on our physical, emotional, social selves. Sounds like we have a lot in common. I'm so glad you shared and hope you will continue to do so. Very glad you're with us. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
azreynolds Member
I have to say after reading so many of the comments above, it is really sad how many of us have lost our lives to this illness. What's worse, I think, is losing all of our friends too. Like being in pain isn't enough sacrifice. Big hugs to everyone!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="azreynolds" user-id="3677307"/> It is sad to reflect on all migraine takes from us. I hope you can reconnect with those wonderful joy shots of yours. The process of looking at migraine with gratitude, as you've talked about before, is nonlinear. At times we can see it through one lens and at other times we see it differently. It's a long and challenging journey. Thinking of you and sending love your way, Annzie. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team 
2. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="azreynolds" user-id="3677307"/> I agree, migraine disease steals so much from us. Hopefully a cure will be in reach in our lifetime. Gentle hugs back at you, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team
Prettymomma Member
Hi Holly, what a tough subject. I am trying so hard to be positive about it but it just hurts🙁 Chronic migraine, and other headache issues have really not only upended my life but they have upended the lives of my family as well. My husband works very hard to support me and the 2 of 5 kids that are home with us. I do not work outside the home and I am unable to do that at this point. To make matters worse, my husband is currently unemployed so the financial implications are very hard since I can't contribute to the income. He has had several job interviews lately including 2 today so we are very hopeful. My health has continued to decline to the point that I am disabled. Some days all I can do is just be in bed. I try very hard to be there for my family, and most of them are very understanding. I know I have let them down, and I feel like I let myself down too. This is not the way I pictured my life to be. On the positive side though, I am starting to be able to come to grips with my condition and try to live my best life. I am taking care of myself now because I am starting to see that I am worth it. AND...... it is worth it to others that I take care of myself too. I see a counselor and a neurologist on a regular basis. You could think of me as someone who is smiling through her tears now. It hurts, everything hurts, but I want to put on a smile and be there for others. I do not want to be the type of person who is feeling so sorry for myself. ( and I do, do that at times 😀 but I always have looked up to the types of individuals that despite the hardships they face they remain hopeful, loving, compassionate, etc... I like that you brought up the longterm implications of migraine, because it is definitely something that we all are dealing with on the day to day. We all need each other's hearing ear and support. Thank you so much for all that you do. You are truly an inspiration and a wonderful little ray of sunshine with all of your kind words and helpful advice. Take care Holly😀
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hello, my dear <inline-mention username="Prettymomma" user-id="7002652"/> - Thank you for continuing to share more of your journey with us. So much of what you share is deeply relatable and therefore helps us all feel less alone and more connected. "This is not how I pictured my life would be" - a feeling so many of us have experienced. I like how you acknowledged both the importance of, and difficulty in, maintaining a positive outlook when it comes to migraine. I find gratitude to be elusive at times. At other times, I feel I have a firm grip on it and at others, it feels like it's slipping through my fingers like sand. Allowing ourselves the grace to toggle back and forth between positivity and upset is a healthy goal. I sometimes find myself saying (under my breath) it's okay to feel how I feel today. Feeling bad about feeling bad is a terrible drain and waste of energy- but sometimes that's just how I feel. I try to let it flow through and out of me when it arises. As you said, we are all dealing with it and living through it each day. So living in the moment (or trying to) can be helpful. I'm sorry to hear about the current state of affairs with your husband's employment. Financial strains, on top of daily pain, bring an understandable increase in stress. And that stress often let's itself out in the form of more pain. We do have to let it out, though - and to try to find a way to let go of what we cannot control. If you look up to people who remain hopeful, loving, and compassionate in the face of hardship, you should look in the mirror, my friend. You are so clearly a deeply loving, expressive, and caring woman who spreads compassion at every turn. So glad to know you. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
Prettymomma Member
Wow Holly.. You're gonna make me cry.. Thank you for your kind words! You are amazing! 😀
jenniferlambe Member
This is such a large topic, it's hard to know where to begin. Chronic migraine has impacted my life in so many ways and on so many levels. I think one of the big changes I've experienced has been to become my own best advocate. I've realized that no one else is going to handle my care and look out for my well-being as well as I can. I build time into my schedule for "down-time", which I've found is crucial for my ability to function with chronic migraine. I'm very protective of my schedule and commitments, and when I start feeling overwhelmed, I start saying "no" to personal requests, social gatherings, etc. There are no easy answers with chronic migraine.
1. Kimberly.broughal Moderator
 <inline-mention username="jenniferlambe" user-id="3769011"/> Thank you for weighing in on this topic. Chronic migraine is extremely difficult to live with and has impacted us in so many ways. It's great to hear how well you are advocating for yourself. Building in down-time is such a smart and helpful move and something I have never really done for myself! You've motivated me to give this a try and carve out time for myself which is SO much needed, so thank you for that! It's not easy saying "no" to things and missing out but you have to do what is best for you and that is something I am still learning even after years of living with chronic migraine. I admire the boundaries that you put up and your awareness of when things are becoming too much. As you know, you are not alone in this journey and sharing your experience is very powerful and makes a difference. Sending you positive thoughts and continued success in self-advocating!! Warmly, -Kim (Migraine.com Team Member)
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="jenniferlambe" user-id="3769011"/> - Hi there- so grateful you chimed in here to share some of your journey with chronic migraine. You are right, it is so comprehensive, the impact and reach of this condition- it's hard to know where to start. I LOVE and totally relate to the strategy of building down-time into every day. I've had migraine for 45 years and only in the last couple years did I realize the importance of setting aside time in my day to be quiet and calm - either to help increase the efficacy of my medications or to do a reset to calm the pain as it's rising- OR to just let my senses be quiet. I now have adopted two breaks in my day- late morning and late afternoon - during which I'm really quiet. This can take 4-6 hours of my day but I've started embracing the idea that managing migraine (not by my choosing) is like a full-time job- so setting aside a good part of each day to proactively care for myself is very worth my time. I also am very protective of my time and energy as my well-time is so limited. Thank you so much for sharing -always good to connect with another person who is responding in a similar way. Please keep in touch! Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
MMS1956 Member
Hi, I’m 67 years old now and have been having chronic daily migraines since I was 54. I actually had to stop working at 55 and went on short term disability as I just couldn’t concentrate with the constant pain. I was the Vice President of Sales & Marketing of a 500+ person company. While I was on STD my employer was not very supportive or sympathetic. (I was there for 12 years). Then when I applied for Long Term Disability I was terminated. I was in absolutely no shape to fight them on this. I retained a lawyer and he advised me to take the severance package they had offered as if I went to court I could end up with nothing. Long story short I ended up having to sue the insurance company as they cut me off LTD after 2 years. I did win the suit however the settlement was only about 18 months full salary but it was better than nothing. Throughout this time I had so many doctors appointments and tests to try to determine the source of the headaches. Still to this day we have no idea what causes them. We thought (wrongly) that perhaps not working would reduce my stress levels and that would help but no. I’ve probably tried over 25 different meds…including the newer injectable drugs developed strictly for migraines like Aimovig , Vyepti etc etc. None have worked. So I take opiates and medical marijuana that help me live a life. The Accupuncture and massage therapy helped out a little but it’s so very expensive and didn’t work that well. Along the way the depression and anxiety has been constant. I also developed Tinnitus 5 years ago to add to my troubles. I just take one day at a time and really can’t commit to anything on a schedule as some days I just stay in bed and “drug up”. My wife has been my rock and I’m not sure I’d still be here if not for her. Living day to days not all that bad as you have to live in the present as you never know what tomorrow will bring. 
1. MMS1956 Member
 Hi, No we didn’t need to go to court at all. A lot of people are afraid to go after an insurance company because they don’t want the hassle and think that the insurer always wins. Not the case at all. They did however make me sign a non disclosure that stated, not only, I couldn’t tell anyone that I won the settlement but that I couldn’t even tell anyone that I sued them. Lol. Remember insurance companies are very very wealthy, so don’t be afraid. If you go to court and lose you’re liable for the lawyers bill so try to get as much in a settlement as possibly and avoid court. Just my opinion and experience. 
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="MMS1956" user-id="3836265"/> - Grateful for this guidance. Thank you so much. Fascinating about the NDA! Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
andreak Member
 I just had to review my medical history to prepare to meet a new Migraine Specialist after years of believing there was nothing more to be done.. It seems that the severity of my situation has not improved for any length of time for 20 years. Every now and again, I feel like mySelf. I feel like a person of creative intelligence, compassion and enthusiasm, curiosity, generous spirit and a fine sense of humor. I still believe that is who I am but most of the time a am in Fog or fighting my way out of the paper bag. It is sad as a whole. And it is a wondrous thing that I have managed to keep up my hope and determination all these years. No professional life, not even interested in knitting or quilting or playful alternatives which require consistent effort. I sure hope something will work this time around ...to give me more time as an engaged being. thanks Holly for the place to speak. 
1. Cody Leach Community Admin
 I'm sorry to hear how much your migraines have effected you the past 20 years <inline-mention username="andreak" user-id="3848816"/>. My heart goes out to you, and I hope that your new specialist will help you find some treatment options that are a good fit for you. You deserve to feel like your true self, and to enjoy the richness of experience that life can offer us. I also know that many people in our community can resonate with that feeling of becoming a shell of a person that they once were. There is hope, and things can change for the better. We just have to take it one day at a time and do the best that we can with the tools that we have 😀. Wishing you well, and thanks for posting. - Cody (Team Member) 
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Hi <inline-mention username="andreak" user-id="3848816"/> - Thank you so much for sharing more about your journey and the lessons you've learned along the way. So helpful to read. I love how you are focusing on the strength, wisdom, and determination that you've been able to cultivate in the face of migraine. That is such a healthy approach. And yes, this condition is so hard due to its intensity and relentless nature. I'm most interested in hearing about how things go with the new doctor. Good for you for continuing to seek relief and answers. Grateful for your articulate share! Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
atijerina Member
Holly, you mentioned aspect of migraine suffering not talked about and that is the LONG term effects of migraine pain. I’ve suffered over 25 years of migraine with 10years of that time in a 24/7 state of constant pain. I can attribute my disease as being the cause and effect of losing my job, my partner and the cause of mental decline, as well. Constant pain effects our cognitive abilities and this is another feature not talked about openly. I have changed. I was once the center of the party, so to speak, in a high paying job and working at a high capacity mentally. Migraines changed all that. Today, like others on this message board, I manage. More compassionate, yes, but at a high cost. We do, don’t we, surround ourselves with people who understand and are compassionate when we curl up in a ball with ice and wait out the high level of pain, hoping we don’t go to the hospital tonight. I have found a combination of therapies that bring it down for half the month to workable levels. On those days I work/consult/write/see people until overcome again and don’t move, speak or see anyone. There is the mental cost — the depression; there is the economic cost because when poor or even middle class we can’t afford new technologies such as stem cell replacement, bio-feedback therapies or the new research into psychedelics. I am angry that migraines are viewed as ‘headaches’ by federal standards and we aren’t eligible for disability assistance. Yes, I was once a high functioning scholar, today, I am a low functioning scholar and a poet, hoping that someday, we can be eligible for new therapies that don’t involve harsh drugs that cause heart attacks and body aches in the bones. Let’s keep talking, maybe someone will hear us. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="atijerina" user-id="3675942"/> - My gracious you are incredibly articulate! I'm grateful for what you shared and how you did so. I know that sometimes it pulls on energy we don't have to simply write a post like this- so thank you for taking the time. You do a great job here of outlining the depth and width of the impact of chronic migraine. I appreciated your mention of cognitive decline and wish I'd included that more specifically in the video. The amount of downtime is significant when we are living with chronic migraine. This results in the sense that we are decaying physically and in our clarity of thought. The relentless brain fog and aphasia that can accompany this condition can leave us feeling like we're swimming in a stupor. And when this occurs day after day, it's logical to question the toll of this condition. I spend so many hours staring at a wall vs the level of stimulation and input I used to feel in earlier years. I recently pursued cognitive testing for this reason. It was tricky for the evaluator to discern the results as I had an active migraine at the time of testing. I tested poorly in three areas - but was this because of the attack? The medication? Or was this illustrative of a true impact on my brain from the wear and tear of migraine? Hard to know- I plan to return in a couple of years to see where I am comparatively. I'm so glad to hear you've found some therapeutic approaches that enable you to participate in the world- albeit in a less comprehensive way than you were able to before. The cost of migraine is high, indeed. Sharing and connecting on this level is important and I'm so glad you joined the conversation. Please keep your insights coming. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
jacqui555 Member
This is a great video. I can see on your face that you understand. I developed episodic migraine after childbirth 2002. I was able to function and had meds that worked. I worked as a teacher. Then 12 years later I turned on my nightstand light one morning and couldn’t tolerate the light. I spent 2 years in bed with 24/7 migraine pain. I lost my job. I lost my driver’s license. I lost my independence. I lost my wife as she became my resentful caregiver although she has not left me we do not have a marriage. I lost my social life. After two years in bed I had a neuro implant placed in my body-and it got me out of my bedroom. However I still can not tolerate light. My home is dimmed all the time. The windows are covered. When I go outside I have to wear a brim hat and glasses that were specially made that block most light-I can not see faces and I do use a white cane most of the time. I look hideous. When we were all wearing masks my whole head was practically covered-it was embarrassing. I lost myself to anxiety and depression. I planned on suicide in 2021 but then my daughter told me I was going to be a grandma. So I exist. I live. I smile. But I don’t feel like I have a life. I have tried: physical therapy, chiropractor, acupressure, meditation, acupuncture, medical marijuana, psychotherapy, opiates, muscle relaxers, Botox, trigger point, several types of infusions, injections, a variety of medications/injections, and a Neuro implant. Now my pain Dr told me I need to think about what to do if I am not able to get medications due to availability. Migraine has ruined my life. I keep trying and trying and most people do not understand the gravity of this disease. I am on disability thank goodness. Recently I realized I wouldn’t want my kitty to feel like I do-to be compassionate I would sadly put her down. I have lots of kind drs. And my daughters are very loving and supportive. Thank you for your video and compassion. I bury down these vulnerable parts of myself but your words touched me and I felt safe to share. Thank you. 
1. jacqui555 Member
 Hi. You asked if I feel I have adequate support. Sometimes. On Feb of 2021 I had told myself in Aug 2020 if my health was in the same place in 6 month then I would complete the next step. Now I understand this is a “touchy” topic. My mindset was I still had 30ish years to live. I live in a cave. I don’t drive. Needed large print or audio books. No TV. My wife resents me, all the errand running and caregiving. I wanted to live-not just exist. I am a firm believer in quality of life over quantity. I get so hopefully with every “new” treatment. I’ve heard psychedelics could help. So that is my next step. Until then my grandson will never know how much he means to me—that’s a lot of pressure and it’s not 100% healthy but it’s what I’ve go. Thank you for the safe space. Can’t find many of them now days. Peaceful light to all 
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 Dearest <inline-mention username="jacqui555" user-id="3762708"/> - so grateful for your honesty. Thank you for letting us in to your journey. I'm so glad you're with us. It can indeed be difficult to maintain a larger perspective when migraine pummels us repeatedly. It's a condition that literally keeps us from being able to see straight. And I understand your point about quantity over quality. Still, I try to hold onto the fact that life is long and can offer many twists and turns - and, like you said, the future holds the possibility of relief through new treatments. A beautiful thing how your grandson has served to ground you in such an important way. I'll be interested in hearing what you find with psychedelics. What specifically are you considering? I also wonder about your incorporating a therapist or counselor into your overall treatment strategy. These folks can help with the many challenges that arise while living with a chronic health condition. I, and many here, have found that to be a key component in managing migraine. Please keep your reflections and wisdom coming. Lovely to be learning from and coming to know you better. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
ChroniKat Member
As I read the comments, I feel tears coming to my eyes, tears of sympathy and empathy. I'm sorry that anyone has to go through this. I had my first migraine attack at 12, and soon after, the attacks became more and more frequent. I never thought about it before, but I believe I was chronic before I even knew that what I had was migraine. Between the frequent migraines and long, heavy, painful periods, I seemed to always be sick or recovering. This was years ago, when people didn't know as much about migraine, and my family didn't know anyone with migraine either. Because of all this, I didn't end up following the path of my peers, and didn't pursue the future I once thought I would have. I am lucky in that right now, I'm not experiencing chronic migraine, though I do have other chronic conditions reeking havoc with my life (won't bore you with them here). Though I still sometimes grieve for the life I lost, sometimes, just sometimes I feel a little grateful for the things I did get to experience, even though they may not have always been my first choices - they were probably the best choices for me at the time.
Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
Greetings- <inline-mention username="ChroniKat" user-id="3674804"/> - so glad to see you chiming in here to such an important discussion. I'm beyond happy that you are in migraine remission currently. I really hope that continues for you- especially as you have your hands full with other demanding conditions. The compassion that you cultivated during your time with migraine is really felt here- and we're so grateful for your kindness and support. I love especially your last paragraph- I also search hard for the gratitude and positive lessons that come from living with a chronic health condition. It illustrates a beautiful acceptance and wisdom. Sending such love your way- Holly (migraine.com team).
CommunityMember928842 Member
Hi. episodic/chronic migraine has made my life very challenging, to say the least. I'm aware that many if not most of us also have comorbidities (other health conditions at the same time) that make life even harder. I also have fibromyalgia, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and osteoarthritis. Pain is an everyday experience, with very few pain-free days. Working full time is probably my biggest challenge and why I hold on to my job that enables me to have the summers off (school year schedule). Having the summer off helps me to recharge, but it doesn't really have the effect that I hope, most years. All pain conditions are potentially isolating, so I make efforts to make social plans with friends or family to cheer myself up, and stay connected. I know that having pain conditions also makes me/us more kind to others experiencing pain of any kind. I only wish the general public were more understanding and educated about migraine facts. I try to educate as I can, but there are not always people open to this enlightenment. We trudge on. 
1. CommunityMember928842 Member
 Thank you for the support. I'm pretty sure I would qualify for disability, but could not live off it unless I found cheaper housing. I'm able to work at home 4 days/week, but also have occasional travel, which can be difficult. It's all a juggling act that is never the same each day. 
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember928842" user-id="3679828"/> - Indeed social security disability means a significant cut in income. I wonder if your current work has a private short or long-term disability option. Might enable you to take leave and see how it impacts you. Many of us combine social security disability with income from private disability we attained through our last jobs. Hope that might be an option for you. Sending gentle hugs- Holly (migraine.com team).
CommunityMember928842 Member
Hi. Yes, we do. Thanks for reminding me. LTD could help me if i had to go that way. I'm 60 now, and "need" to work until 68-70 to get the best social security benefits. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember928842" user-id="3679828"/> Glad you have the LTD option. I understand the desire and drive to make it to a certain goal line for financial purposes- however, be sure to give yourself the grace to reevaluate how you are in case you need to change your plan. So much about living with migraine is adjusting to a shift away from what we envisioned for our lives. We are here for you and thinking of you - Holly (migraine.com team).
Takk Member
Chronic Migraine has left me feeling like I'm in solitary confinement. I can't commit to employment, have to opt out of so many social occasions, have to rely upon public transport as I can't drive while badly affected, it is really like living through daily torture. I have more and more periods where I can't cognitively function very well. Periods of expressive aphasia where any words are a struggle. So you just retract and brace for impact. I'm tired, just tired. My spouse tolerates this whole thing with effort. Although they don't blame me, it's still coming from me, the font of disruption. So my inadequacies, limitations, obstacles, challenges, are inflicted upon me, but supporting me is still challenging. It's like living with a chronic alcoholic who is out of it, and suffering a horrible hangover, but they never touch a drop. The worst part of it outside of what I've stated is the stigma and lack of compassion you get from unwittingly ignorant members of the community about an 'invisible illness'.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Takk" user-id="8635263"/> My gracious you are articulate about the impact of chronic migraine. I relate to and appreciate all of the analogies you employed to describe this condition. The challenge related to being in pain; managing complex neurological conditions; and, being adequately supported and understood by peers and loved ones. Such a multi-tiered and deeply challenging disease. You are not alone in facing any of these difficulties- we are with you and so glad you're with us. Please keep your well-earned wisdom coming. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.