Work Interrupted: Employment & Neurological Conditions

In the latest episode of the Brain Health Matters podcast, we explore the often-overlooked impact of neurological conditions on employment—not just for those living with these conditions, but also for their carers. From disrupted careers and workplace stigma to the emotional toll of balancing health and livelihood, we unpack the complex realities faced by millions across Europe.

This episode features a roundtable conversation with Elisabeth Kasilingam (Executive Director, European MS Platform), Hildur Önnudóttir (Advocacy and Campaigns Manager, Parkinson's Europe) and Elena Ruiz de la Torre (Executive Director, European Migraine and Headache Alliance (EMHA)), who discuss systemic challenges—like lack of accommodations, inflexible work environments, and inadequate social support—and share actionable insights on how employers, policymakers, and healthcare systems can do better.

You’ll also hear firsthand stories from people who have had to adapt, and sometimes sacrifice their professional aspirations, with audio diaries from Lori RennaLinton and Ben Hunt.

Finally, you'll hear from Silvia Carter, Community Leader at Carering - Roche's internal community for employees who are patients or caregivers.

Whether you're a patient, a carer, an employer, or simply curious about the intersection of brain health and work, this episode offers a compassionate and informative look at what it means to stay employed while managing a neurological condition.

Links to resources mentioned:

• MSatWork.LIFE
• MS in the Workplace: A Practical Toolkit for Employers
• Welcome in the Workplace: Parkinson’s and your rights at work
• Parkinson’s workplace rights
• Parkinson's Europe 'Welcome in the Workplace' webinar 23 October 2025
• The Migraine Friendly Workplace project
• ERN-RND Patient Journeys

The Brain Health Matters podcast is written and produced by Elizabeth Cunningham on behalf of the European Federation of Neurological Associations, with support in 2025 from Roche, Alexion, PTC Therapeutics, Merck, Boehringer Ingelheim and Lundbeck.