Illness Perception and its Association with Emotional Distress Among Adults with Migraine: A Cross-Sectional Study.

between 18 and 40 years. The study found that negative illness perceptions were linked to higher emotional distress. Participants with a more severe view of their migraine experienced increased anxiety and depression. Awareness of migraine's impact on life was low, contributing to stigma and misconceptions. Many participants reported feeling misunderstood by others regarding their condition. The findings suggest that improving awareness and addressing misconceptions may enhance treatment outcomes. Additionally, understanding patients' perceptions can guide healthcare providers in offering better support. This research highlights the need for targeted education about migraines in Pakistan. By addressing these issues, healthcare providers can help reduce emotional distress associated with migraines. Ultimately, this study emphasizes the importance of considering patients' views on their illness in treatment plans to improve overall quality of life. Clinical relevance: This research indicates that addressing illness perceptions may reduce emotional distress in migraine patients, leading to better management strategies and improved patient outcomes.