The link between migraines and psychological distress.

The definitive link between the two.

Psychological factors such as overstated pain, along with depression and anxiety, all contribute to migraine-related disability. These psychological factors should be targeted, possibly alongside conventional meds, so as to reduce migraine frequency, and migraine-related disability.

Quite often migraines are triggered by psychological issues such as life stresses, or may involve actual depression and anxiety problems, which could be the result of unresolved traumas. 

Although studies do agree that psychological factors do play a role in recurring migraine attacks, there are other causes involved at the same time. These include hormonal changes, diet, poor sleep, and over-medication – among others. 

Research has made it clear that both the physical and psychological aspects of migraine headaches need to be treated for the most successful outcomes. The good news is that the best treatments for anxiety and depression include hypnotherapy in the form of cognitive behavioural therapy, known as CBT.

How CBT and hypnotherapy works.

Hypnotherapy can help you bridge the gap between migraines and psychological issues. By accessing the subconscious mind when you are in a relaxed state, the therapist can get to the root of negative emotions which may be causing abnormal behaviour linked to stress or anxiety, which in turn can trigger migraines. CBT treatment is also very effective in treating possible negative reactions to pain, which actually makes pain worse.

You will also learn about stress management and coping skills that can help you manage your migraine and headache pain conditions - and most importantly, how to reduce stress and anxiety.

In-depth studies have suggested that stress is the most common migraine headache trigger. Extreme stress can cause a chemical reaction in the brain which makes it more likely that a migraine may develop, be more painful, and potentially last longer.

Stress can never be completely avoided, but knowing how to deal more effectively with stress, will lead to less of a negative impact on your life – and result in fewer headaches.

The benefits of CBT and hypnotherapy.

·      This type of therapy offers a non-drug alternative treatment to that of traditional medications for migraine issues. Many folk are unhappy keeping to the medication treatment recommended by the doctor. This often leads to poor management of their migraine issues. 

·      A non-drug alternative treatment also appeals to people who want to follow more natural ways, and only resort to medications if it is a very severe attack.

·      Some migraine attacks cause emotional upheavals which result in great distress. The hypnotherapy and enhanced CBT relaxation techniques help to promote feelings of calm which improves quality of life for those folk with migraine issues.

·      A survey conducted by the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention Association revealed that people suffering from chronic migraines, are up to 5 times more likely to have a depression and anxiety diagnosis than folk who do not suffer from migraines. Hypnotherapy and CBT very successfully and effectively treats these emotional issues.

·      CBT promotes the verbalization of thoughts which will help to reject negative emotions and negative behavioural patterns, when you feel threatened by migraine symptoms.

These well-researched techniques are instrumental in improving your conscious awareness of migraine triggers, to help you reduce the severity and number of migraine attacks.

Who might benefit the most from enhanced CBT treatment?

People who have migraines plus depression or anxiety, often feel that they are something of a never-ending cycle of suffering. Painful headaches can make you feel stressed, worried, frustrated, and out of control. This is in addition to the other migraine symptoms which may be present.

Those folk who have a history of stress, depression or anxiety, will benefit greatly when the emotional issues have been addressed. 

Hypnotherapy is recognized by the medical fraternity as a scientific alternative, drug-free treatment for patients who struggle with stress and anxiety.