Veterans Face Higher Burden of Migraine and Headache Disorders
Migraine and headache disease are invisible, but their impact is undeniable. For millions of Americans, including a disproportionate number of veterans, these neurologic conditions interfere with daily life, work, relationships, and overall well-being. This June, during National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month (MHAM), the National Headache Foundation (NHF) is renewing its call to shed light on these often-overlooked diseases.
Chronic, Disabling, and Underdiagnosed
“Whether civilian or military, this is an under-diagnosed, under-treated, under-funded disease that has such a disabling impact on so many lives,” said Susan Lane Stone, CEO and executive director of the NHF, in an interview featured in VFW Magazine. “This is a chronic disease, and today there is no cure.”
That reality makes MHAM even more important. In 2025, the campaign theme—“Path to Better Days”—calls on the public to recognize the symptoms they or their loved ones may be experiencing. It’s a chance to move beyond searching for answers online and instead encourage individuals to seek professional care from a provider trained in headache medicine.
A Higher Impact on Veterans
Migraine affects veterans at nearly three times the rate of the civilian population—36.9% of veterans report a history of migraine, compared to 12.7% of non-veterans. Veterans with migraine also report worse general health, greater pain, and a higher prevalence of neurological and psychiatric conditions. These challenges are further complicated by environmental exposures during military service, which may increase susceptibility to headache disorders.
Raising Awareness on the National Stage
This June, NHF and the Coalition for Headache and Migraine Patients (CHAMP) will honor MHAM through a powerful visual display on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. From June 1–14, 30,000 flags will symbolize the toll of migraine and headache disease, including 25,000 purple flags—the official awareness color—and 5,000 American flags to reflect the military connection.
“The display connects the civilian and military communities,” said Stone. “About 42 million people in the U.S. are impacted by headache disorders, of which about 6.8 million of those are veterans.”
Operation Brainstorm: Support for the Military Community
As part of its ongoing commitment to veterans and active-duty service members, the NHF continues to lead outreach through Operation Brainstorm™. This comprehensive resource hub includes:
- Veteran-focused headache and migraine education
- Tools to help individuals identify symptoms and potential triggers
- Guidance for navigating care within VA and military health systems
- Stories and support from others living with these conditions
“Our veterans and family deserve to get the care they need and get as many symptom-free or reduced-symptom days back as possible,” Stone said.
If you or someone you love is living with migraine or headache disease and has served in the military, you are not alone. Visit www.OperationBrainstorm.org for information, tools, and support designed specifically for the military and veteran community.