Millions of Americans suffer from migraines, making them five times more likely than those without migraines to suffer from depression. Fortunately, there are many ways to decrease symptoms of both naturally.
- Diet: There are many known foods that can trigger migraines in people, many of which also “feed” into depression symptoms. A few are
- Processed Meats (hot dogs, deli meats, bacon, sausage, etc.)
- Cheeses (blue cheese, feta, cheddar, parmesan, Swiss, etc.)
- Anything with MSG
- Very sugary foods (candy, ice cream, pastries, etc.)
- Alcohol Intake: Drinking too much can lead to both migraine flare ups and increased depression symptoms. Alcohol of any kind should be consumed in moderation, and by drinking too much, you are putting yourself at risk of experiencing exacerbated migraine symptoms and depressive episodes.
- Exercise: By exercising regularly, you cut down your risk of both migraines and depression. Exercise releases endorphins in the brain, a chemical associated with the feeling of happiness. Regular exercise is also known as a stress reliever, and with stress being a major trigger of migraines, this is a great way to keep your symptoms at bay. However, be sure to keep hydrated, as dehydration can cause severe migraines. Exercise should be used as preventative for migraines, not treatment. If you already have a migraine, exercise may make pain worse.
- Acupuncture and Acupressure: Acupuncture and acupressure are two treatments that focus on adding pressure to parts of the body and certain nerves that may relieve pain in other areas of the body. It has been known to help migraines and migraine-associated nausea, as well as relieve stress that may be at the root of both migraines and depression.
- Try Yoga: By focusing on breathing, meditation, and concentration, yoga can be a great way to relieve anxiety, tension within the body, and pain for both migraines and depression. Yoga supports your overall health, which in turn improves mood. It can also relieve root symptoms of migraines and depression, while teaching you lifestyle changes that can have long-term benefits to both. Yoga is extra effective when used alongside other therapies and medications.
Because migraines and depression are linked, it can be difficult to treat one without treating the other. By keeping yourself in good health, you are lowering your risk and side effects for both migraines and depression.
If you or a loved one are suffering from migraines and depression, consider clinical research to help. Please fill out the form below so a member of our team may reach out to you.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/natural-ways-to-reduce-migraines
https://www.health.com/depression/12-nondrug-remedies-for-depression?slide=104607#104607
https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/depression
https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/link-between-migraine-depression-anxiety/
