When to Get Help for Depression If You Have Migraine
Everyone feels low from time to time, especially when dealing with chronic pain. But when those feelings linger, it might be more than just a bad day or even a bad week.
Know the Warning Signs
If you answer “yes” to either of these questions, it’s time to take a closer look:
- Have you felt down, depressed, or hopeless most days for two weeks or more?
- Have you lost interest in things you used to enjoy?
These two questions make up the PHQ-2, a simple screening tool used by providers at Haven. If the screen is positive, we may follow up with a more detailed assessment like the PHQ-9.
Depression Can Be Subtle
It doesn’t always look like sadness. Sometimes it shows up as:
- Fatigue that doesn’t go away
- Isolation
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Low motivation
It can feel like you’re just “off” or not quite yourself. And it may become harder to separate what’s migraine and what’s mood.
Why Early Action Matters
Depression can make migraine worse. And when left untreated, it can:
- Increase the number of migraine days
- Make treatments less effective
- Lower your overall quality of life
But here’s the good news: treating depression can lead to fewer headaches, better coping skills, and a more stable foundation for long-term migraine care.
Where to Start
- Talk to your primary care provider
- Ask about screening tools like the PHQ-9
- Don’t be afraid to bring up mental health with your migraine specialist
At Haven, we screen for depression and anxiety as part of every new patient evaluation. Because we know that healing your headache means looking at your whole life.
If your struggling to find a therapist or counselor, we highly recommend telehealth resources like https://helloalma.com/ or https://growtherapy.com that help you find an in-network therapist.
You don’t have to feel this way forever. Help is available and it works.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you experience menstrual migraine attacks or other severe headaches, consult your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. To explore treatment options, consider booking an appointment with Haven for expert guidance and personalized care.