Depression And Anxiety During Migraine Attacks
Do you experience depression or anxiety symptoms during migraine attacks? There are 4 phases of a migraine attack, and our members have shared that they can feel depressed or anxious during the different phases.
Migraine and depression are comorbid conditions, meaning they often exist together. However, the pain, isolation, and unpredictability that go along with chronic illness can also easily contribute to feelings of sadness or anxiety by itself. The question is: are depression or anxiety symptoms more prevalent during certain phases of a migraine attack?
Depression and Anxiety During Each Phase of a Migraine Attack
It can be tough to distinguish between a migraine symptom, the consequence of living with a chronic condition, and a mood disorder. Here’s a look at how these emotions might show up during each stage of a migraine attack.
- Prodrome Phase: During this phase, you might notice feelings of anxiety or depression that seem to come out of nowhere. This isn’t a reaction to a headache; it’s a separate neurological symptom. You may feel irritable or have a sudden dip in mood, or sense a feeling of dread as your body prepares for a migraine attack. Knowing the attack is coming, and not knowing how severe your symptoms may be, can increase stress and worsen both migraine and mood symptoms.
- Aura Phase: Aura refers to visual disturbances, such as flashing lights, seeing waves or spots, or Alice in Wonderland syndrome. It can also include sensory changes like numbness and tingling, or difficulty speaking. Experiencing these disturbances and changes can be scary, contributing to feeling anxious or sad.
- Headache Phase: This is the stage when a full-blown migraine attack happens. Alongside the pain, you may feel an intense sense of anxiety, fearing the pain will increase or that you’ll have additional symptoms like nausea or vomiting, or even fear that the attack may become intractable. Having to cancel plans or take a sick day can make us feel anxious about being unreliable. Having to retreat to a dark, quiet room can also lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Side effects from acute medication can also contribute to mood disorders, together with fear of those side effects.
- Postdrome Phase: Commonly known as the “migraine hangover,” this stage can be accompanied by significant fatigue and a feeling of being emotionally drained. You might feel a sense of depression or sadness, similar to a crash after an adrenaline or sugar rush. The exhaustion can make it challenging to engage in everyday activities, contributing to low feelings.
In Between Attacks
Interictal is the time between migraine attacks. During this period, we may spend a lot of time worrying about the “next attack.” This can lead to avoiding social plans or activities you enjoy. You may feel guilty for not completing tasks due to your last migraine attack. The unpredictable nature of the disease can also lead to depression, as you grieve for the “normal” life you can’t always live.
Taking Action: Steps to Find Relief
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Step 1: Talk to Your Doctor.
- Most primary care doctors are not equipped to help us manage the depression and anxiety that come along with migraine disease. Ask your doctor or insurance company for a referral to speak to a professional who can help you navigate these feelings. Better managing stress and your mood can positively affect your migraine. Be open to the possibility of lifestyle management, medications, and therapy. Update your Migraine Action Plan!
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Step 2: Explore Lifestyle Management.
- Mindfulness & Stress Reduction: Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help ease anxiety symptoms during all phases of migraine. Many phone apps can help you meditate, concentrate on your breath, or simply relax. The Calm app has a series specifically for migraine.
- Regular Exercise: We all know physical activity can help improve our mood; however, you don’t need to run 5 miles! Gentle yoga, stretching, or a walk outside in nature can do wonders. If exercise triggers your migraine, talk with your doctor about a movement plan that won’t worsen symptoms.
- Sleep Hygiene: The lack of sleep can make anyone grumpy and can trigger migraine symptoms. Try to stick to a set sleep schedule and night time routine to help you relax and prepare for a good night’s sleep. Avoid watching the news or doomscrolling on your phone before bed.
- Connect with a Community: Staying connected to others who also have migraine can be a much-needed lifeline. Talking with others who understand the unique challenges of this disease is priceless.
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Step 3: Consider Therapy.
We can all benefit from talking with a professional from time to time. You can speak with a psychiatrist or psychologist in person or through telehealth. Maybe you feel more comfortable talking with someone from your church. The key is to find someone who can listen objectively and provide action steps for you to manage your depression and anxiety.
Conclusion
Depression and anxiety are very real parts of the migraine experience for many people, but they are treatable. Treating these conditions can have a positive impact on your migraine symptoms. Continue to reach out to others you trust, your family, friends, and others in the migraine community. We are here to support you.