Headaches And Stress: Partners In Crime

From a psychological point of view, it is interesting to analyze this type of pain. It is one of the rawest symptoms of stress, which changes the chemical makeup in the brain, muscles, vertebrae and cranial nerves, only increasing tension and pain.

Let’s take a closer look at the origins of this well-known enemy and see how we can fight it.

Headaches and negative emotions

The body channels and receives the impact of each of our emotions, whether positive or negative. This is not a subtle act, on the contrary, the intimate relationship between headaches and stress is the result of a complex system in which neurotransmitters, metabolites, nerves and the heart trigger a process that can be difficult to control.

According to a study conducted at the University of Maryland, women are more affected by tension headaches than men. Despite being one of the most common types of pain, it has received very little attention and is very difficult to treat.

However, it is important to know exactly what you are dealing with in order to be able to confront this pain as best as possible, that is, as best as possible in your specific case. Taking a painkiller is not always helpful for this type of headache, so you should know exactly what different strategies and techniques exist to prevent it.

The Origin of Tension Headaches

It is still not known exactly how tension headaches develop. For years, scientists have believed that it was mainly due to the contraction of the muscles in the shoulders, neck, head and jaw when a person feels tense.

We must not forget that stress and anxiety are like alarm bells for the brain, making us aware of a risk that we should stay away from. Our instincts prepare us to flee, but our rational side holds us back and forces us to stand still, causing a lot of tension.

The most recent conclusion scientists have reached is that tension in the muscles triggers the release of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which activate the pain pathways in the brain.

Interestingly, we can also experience this type of headache when we come home from work or when it’s the weekend. The body and brain no longer know what it means to relax and as a result the pain continues or even worsens.

Learning to deal with stress to prevent headaches

As we said, everyone has to discover their own method that suits their needs. With medical help and the right strategies to manage everyday stress, you can better manage this common form of pain.

We invite you to reflect on two simple techniques that could help you:

• Awareness: A common mistake is to fill your schedule with far too many tasks, making up new tasks throughout the day that you still need to do. Maybe it’s time to set boundaries. Think things like, “I’m not going to worry about things that aren’t important,” “I’m not going to let that affect me,” “I’m no longer going to worry about that particular person,” “I’ll stop at six o’clock.” and I’ll take a break’, etc.
• Start and end your day peacefully. It may seem trivial, but something as simple as getting up half an hour earlier to enjoy a moment of relaxation, silence and meditation can help you face the day more balanced. Do the same at the end of the day. Allow yourself two hours before bed to relax.

It’s about making time to reconnect with life and with yourself. Allow yourself to be peaceful, balanced and, above all, present, and do not subject yourself to the relentless flow of stress that makes your heart race and distracts you from your priorities.

Headaches are just the first warning sign of stress or anxiety. If you manage to control these common, yet oh-so-dangerous feelings, you’ll be able to avoid headaches and other potential problems.

Don’t be afraid of your fear, move it