Migraine is often worsened by stress, poor sleep, and low mood. Addressing these psychological factors can reduce both frequency and severity.
Headache and migraine frequently occur alongside anxiety, depression, and sleep problems. Treating these together produces better results than treating either alone.
What is migraine?
Migraine involves recurrent headache, often with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Stress, disturbed sleep, anxiety, and low mood are common triggers and consequences, creating a cycle that maintains the problem.
When to seek help for migraine
Recognising the signs and knowing when support can help
If headaches are frequent, if stress or low mood appears to trigger them, or if the fear of the next attack is affecting your work and routine, a psychiatric assessment can help.
Contributing factors we address
Stress and Tension
Sustained stress and muscle tension are among the most common triggers, and are addressed through relaxation and stress management.
Sleep Disturbance
Irregular or insufficient sleep frequently precipitates attacks. Restoring a stable sleep pattern often reduces frequency.
Anxiety Disorders
Persistent worry and heightened arousal can both trigger migraine and increase distress about future attacks.
Depression
Low mood commonly occurs alongside chronic headache, and each condition tends to worsen the other if untreated.
Medication Overuse Headache
Frequent use of painkillers can itself sustain headache. Recognising this pattern is an important part of assessment.
Relaxation and Coping Skills
Structured relaxation, mindfulness, and behavioural strategies that reduce the physical tension contributing to attacks.
