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Two major initiatives — Shades for Migraine and Migraine at School — are tackling the stigma and care gaps surrounding migraine worldwide. Shades for Migraine uses sunglasses as a symbol to spotlight light sensitivity and raise public awareness, while Migraine at School trains school nurses and advocates for student accommodations. Together, they're reshaping how society understands this often-invisible, billion-person disease.
Migraine affects more than 1 billion people worldwide, yet it remains widely stigmatized and misunderstood. Two grassroots-turned-global initiatives are working to change that. Shades for Migraine, led by the nonprofit Association of Migraine Disorders, uses sunglasses as a symbol of solidarity — reflecting the fact that up to 80% of people with migraine experience light sensitivity. Every June, supporters post sunglasses selfies on social media to "flood the feed" with awareness, while in-person events span the U.S., Italy, and Africa.
Migraine at School, launched in 2018 by the Danielle Byron Henry Migraine Foundation, targets a younger, often-overlooked population. The program trains school nurses to identify and support students with migraine — including atypical presentations like abdominal pain in younger children — and helps families secure 504 plan accommodations like dimmed lighting, rest breaks, and flexible scheduling.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: Migraine is one of the most disabling neurological conditions in the world, yet it's chronically underdiagnosed and undertreated — especially in children. These initiatives are building a foundation for better awareness, earlier intervention, and long-term shifts in how society treats people living with migraine.
