For many residents across Sydney’s North Shore, migraines are more than just headaches.
Migraines are a neurological condition that disrupts work, school, and the social lives of those affected.
Affecting 5 million people nationwide, migraines are categorised by intense, throbbing pain, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual auras which warn of an upcoming attack.
Triggers come from stress, sleep deprivation, foods, hormonal changes, certain scents, and weather conditions, among others.
For Jude Kingston, the worst thing about migraine for her is the unpredictability of the condition.
‘I was in New York about to go to a fashion show, and I got the visual disturbance, and I knew I had to find somewhere to go and sit and take some medication,’ explains Jude. ‘I’ve had a child. Give me childbirth any day over a migraine.’
After suffering with migraine since childhood, Jude decided to join national patient advocacy organisation Migraine Australia. She joined to promote advocacy and awareness.
‘You have no energy left in your body, and the mental health aspect is a big one,’ says Jude. ‘It takes a toll on you because you can’t go to work, so you get worried about that. It does cause depression in people because they ask, “How do I have a break from this?”, and most people can’t have a break.’
According to Migraine Australia, migraine costs the economy $35 billion, broken down by $14.3 billion of health system costs, $16.3 billion of productivity costs, and $5.1 billion of other costs.
Lifestyle changes including regular sleep, hydration, and stress management, combined with appropriate medical treatments can reduce frequency and severity. Recognition and understanding from family, friends, and workplaces are vital.
By raising awareness locally, North Shore communities can ensure those living with migraines are supported, informed, and empowered to manage this challenging condition while maintaining their daily routines.
