Why Treating Just Your Headache Might Not Be Enough
When migraine and depression show up together, treating just one may leave you stuck.
Too many patients focus on ending the pain without addressing what’s happening emotionally. But if you’re only treating the headache, you might miss the chance to heal something deeper.
What Happens If Depression Goes Untreated?
Depression isn’t always obvious. It’s not just about feeling sad. Sometimes it shows up as:
- Lack of motivation
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Irritability
- Feeling numb or disconnected
When depression isn’t treated, migraine may get worse. It might become more frequent. Or harder to treat. You might find that even when the pain stops, life still feels heavy.
Dr. Susan Hutchinson, clinical director at Haven, sees this often. She’s treated patients who say, "If you fixed my headache, I wouldn’t be depressed." But in reality, treating one doesn’t always fix the other.
One Condition Can Hold the Other Back
The science backs this up. Patients with depression are more likely to:
- Experience chronic migraine
- Have poorer responses to treatment
- Struggle with daily functioning
Ignoring depression can trap you in a loop of pain and low energy. On the flip side, addressing depression through therapy, lifestyle changes, or medication. Can actually make migraine easier to manage.
The Power of a Dual Approach
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But there are options that help both migraine and depression at the same time:
- Duloxetine (Cymbalta): An antidepressant also used for chronic pain
- CBT: A type of therapy that helps reshape how you respond to both pain and mood changes
- Lifestyle changes: Sleep, exercise, and nutrition all play a role in recovery
A Different Kind of Migraine Care
At Haven, we don’t just treat symptoms, we treat people. That means asking hard questions. Listening to what’s behind the pain. And building a care plan that meets the full reality of your life.
Because more good days shouldn’t just mean fewer migraines. It should mean feeling more like yourself again.
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.