Migraine and Depression

[e_milia]

Hi,
I have been diagnosed with migraines without aura since I was 16 years of age and I have migraines at least once in a week. Recently, before of after having a migraine attack, I felt depressed although I do not any worries. I am just wondering is there any connection between migraines and depression? Can someone help me? I think it is getting more serious.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

Depression may cause headaches and headaches especially chronic severe ones may cause depression.So this may occur both ways.In your case, is there any history of depression in the family?

Depression is diagnosed based on a certain criteria.This includes certain behaviours and a given period of time. Would you be able to share with us your thoughts and mood during the episodes?

How would you describe your headaches?

Certain psychological related disorders may have an organic or somatic presentation as seen in  anxiety disorders and depression.I suggest you seek consult with a neurologist so your headaches may be classified.If you can also fiind a counsellor or therapist in the area with whom you can share your thoughts,fears and anxieties.Do not hesitate to communicate your concerns.Get enough sleep and have fun with friends.

[e_milia]

Hi,
I don't think that there is any history of depression in my family although my dad (who also has migraine) do get depressed once in a while.

Well, I am usually a cheerful person but I will be usually depressed before and after having the migraine. During the time of depression, all I did was to cry uncontrollably and it takes approximately an hour or so for me to calm down. Although there is no worries or troubles bothering me, I felt sad and helpless even though I am not sure why I felt that way. Also, I have thought of what it would be like if I were to die- suicide did cross my mind at one point.

For the headaches, it usually around the left temple and it is a throbbing kind of headaches. My neck and shoulders will be stiff and I have photophobia. In addition, I also experienced nausea.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

I appreciate your telling me all these. Are there any changes at home,in school or at work that seems to have bothered you lately ? How are your relationships right now?

At this point, your headaches may be an independent condition from your depressed states. Your headaches have been present for quite sometime already? Is this feeling of depression more recent?

You need to talk to someone.It is important that you discuss your thoughts with a family member or a close friend.A counsellor or therapist will also be a ready listener for any fears, worries and anxieties that may seem to trigger your depressed mood.It is but natural to  be pessimistic or negative over certain things at times. Life is not always about happiness and good things.What is important is for you to overcome this negativity so you may become more productive.Start overcoming these negative thoughts and depressed feelings and emotions by seeking help or at least by talking to someone.You are young and things in life change for the better for those who strive and work hard.You may have your own concerns at this point but so do millions of others and yet, life goes on and continues.

Keep us posted for anything.Your migraine headaches may be readily managed by your primary physician. Ask about preventive migraine therapy. Discuss with your physician the role of antidepressants in managing migraine symptoms.