FMLA & Migraine Headaches

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows an individual to take leave for 12 unpaid workweeks during any 12-month period of employment. Here is how you can take advantage of the FMLA. If you find yourself missing work because of bad headaches, you just may be able to sleep in without fear of being fired. Bet you didn’t know that FMLA & migraine headaches go hand in hand.

If you’ve worked for your employee for at least a year, you’re probably eligible for the FMLA. So, the next question is, do you…
A) care for a newborn son or daughter?
B) participate in adoption or foster care?
C) care for an immediate family member who is suffering from a serious health condition?
D) suffer from a serious health condition yourself?

If you experience chronic migraine headaches, you may have answered “yes” to D. If so, you should investigate the FMLA. If you can prove that your medical or health condition requires hospital stay or is debilitating in some way, you can apply for leave. It’s no paid vacation but it is a way to secure your health and well-being without sacrificing your job security.

Many people are surprised about FMLA & migraine headaches, but they probably shouldn’t be. Migraine headaches are different than sinus headaches and tension headaches. They are the symptom of an actual neurological disease and can even be life-threatening. A person suffering from severe migraines may find it impossible to deal with the stresses of a work environment and through the FMLA, they can maintain their job without putting their health at risk! So, if you or anyone you know suffers from migraine headaches, remember about FMLA & migraine headaches.