Men with Migraine: Real Advice from Guys Who Get It
Migraine isn’t just a bad headache—it’s a life changer. For many men, talking about it feels impossible. Society often expects men to “man up,” but migraine doesn’t care about stereotypes.
Imagine battling debilitating pain and nausea that stop you in your tracks—yet feeling like you have to hide it, downplay it, or “man up” to keep going. For many men living with migraine, this is an all-too-familiar reality. Despite migraine being a severe and debilitating neurological disease, men often face a double challenge: the stigma surrounding migraine itself, and the societal pressure to “tough it out” and not show weakness. However, if you’re a man living with migraine, you’re definitely not alone—and there’s a whole community ready to support you. Here’s some straight-from-the-source advice from 30 men with migraine who recently participated in one of our focus groups or interviews. Men who’ve been there, done that, and who want to help you navigate the journey.
7 Tips for Men with Migraine
Tip #1: Find Your Tribe
One of the most powerful things you can do is find other people who truly understand what you’re going through. As one man put it, “Find your tribe. Find other people who understand you and have what you have,” because migraine can be isolating, especially for men. Whether it’s an online support group or a local community, connecting with others helps break down walls and provides a safe space to share advice and experiences.
Tip #2: Don’t Hide It—Speak Loudly
Migraine attacks are often misunderstood as “just headaches,” but they are so much more. Many men in our study shared the importance of speaking up about their condition. “Let people know it’s not just a headache,” one said, emphasizing the need to speak loudly and clearly about the impact migraine can have. Breaking the silence helps reduce stigma and opens the door to support.
Tip #3: Seek the Right Medical Help
A consistent message was to get professional help—and don’t settle. See a neurologist or headache specialist who is knowledgeable about migraine. If you don’t feel comfortable or supported, don’t be afraid to switch doctors. “Find yourself a good headache specialist immediately,” one man urged, reminding us that we deserve quality care. Also, advocate for yourself—be prepared to navigate insurance, treatment options, and even step therapy challenges.
Tip #4: Know Your Triggers and Manage Them
Understanding what sets off your migraine attacks is crucial. Whether it’s caffeine, dehydration, or certain foods like red wine and chocolate, understanding your triggers helps you manage your condition more effectively. Simple lifestyle changes, such as drinking enough water and getting regular sleep, can make a significant difference.
Tip #5: Practice Radical Acceptance
Migraine can be relentless, and fighting the reality of having frequent attacks can make things worse. One man shared how “radical acceptance” changed his approach: accepting that migraine is a part of life, and focusing on how to get through them instead of resisting. This mindset helps reduce frustration and stress, which can also trigger migraine attacks.
Tip #6: Take It One Step at a Time
Living with migraine can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable pieces helps. Focus on one moment, one task, and one treatment at a time. Surround yourself with people who listen and support you through the ups and downs.
Tip #7: Don’t Be Shy—Get Help
If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or even another man who’s been through it, support is out there. “Get help. Don’t be shy. Don’t be scared,” said a man who lives with migraine.
Final Thoughts
Migraine in men is often hidden in silence, but it doesn’t have to be. Finding your community, advocating for yourself, and accepting your journey can make all the difference. Remember, you’re not alone—and there’s strength in sharing your story.
If you or someone you know lives with migraine, start by connecting with others, educating yourself, and seeking expert care. Your journey with migraine might be challenging, but with the right support and mindset, you can find ways to thrive and not just survive.
For more insights and support, we encourage you to connect with migraine advocacy groups such as Migraine Meanderings, and healthcare professionals who are trained in headache medicine. Visit the new Migraine Meanderings webpage, Men with Migraine, for more information and resources.
Note: This blog draws from multiple focus groups and interviews held with a total of 30 men who live with migraine about their experiences. The blog was organized with the assistance of Coral AI, an AI-powered tool, to enhance clarity and structure.