In the US and Canada, June is National Migraine & Headache Awareness Month (#MHAM). The migraine, headache, and cluster communities unite to help improve disease awareness, understanding, and support.
Our MWS community has over 100 countries represented. Even if you don’t live in the US or Canada, you may draw some valuable lessons about the effort happening in other places. Disease awareness plays a vital role in raising public knowledge by addressing stigma and building a stronger community of patient advocates.
In the US, the activities planned for the month are geared toward those living with headache diseases, their caregivers, and the general public.
Observance Days
For 2023, the following seven days are recognized as special Observance Days within the month of June. Each one represents a significant topic within our community. Help us spread awareness and recognition on these days by posting the information below on your social media accounts:
June 1: Migraine at WorkJune 6: Veterans with Headache DiseaseJune 7: In Remembrance June 18: Headache Diseases and MenJune 19: Disparities in HeadacheJune 21: Shades for MigraineJune 24: Cure for Cluster Virtual 5KJune 29: Chronic Migraine Awareness Day
Find more information about these days and articles from advocates (including several team members from the Migraine World Summit) on the MHAM event website.
In Canada, the events are focussed on advocacy, awareness and fundraising. Find more information about the 2023 events on the Migraine Canada and Migraine Quebec websites.
Many of the activities taking place are online and if English is a common language for those outside the US or Canada, then you can still participate and support initiatives. You may even see others from your country doing the same.
Invisible and stigmatized conditions like chronic migraine, cluster headache and others need advocates and a public voice to improve research funding and to increase support for patients and their families.
Many people on the Migraine World Summit team have migraine themselves and in their families. Many are also parents. The same may be true for you. If we want a better future for our children and the generations to come, the time to act is now.
Whether you want to educate yourself through webinars and training sessions, participate in a race, share on social media, wear shades on June 21, or rally against Chronic Migraine on June 29, it’s up to you. Every action you take, no matter how small, counts.
Join us in advocating and spreading awareness!
https://www.migraineheadacheawarenessmonth.org/