Headaches Before Crying: A Mental Health Perspective

When I feel like crying, my head starts to hurt?

Hello, doctor.
I am currently in a state of drug withdrawal, but recently I often have thoughts of wanting to leave this world.
My life is not unhappy; it’s just that whenever I have a moment of quiet, my mind fills with these thoughts.
My mother accompanied me to see you, and there are many painful feelings I can't express because I don't want to worry her.
I have a history of self-harm and overdosing on medication, and it was my mother who took me to the emergency room.
Since that incident, my life has been filled with guilt and shame; this feeling has not disappeared from the moment I wake up until I fall asleep.
I often feel like crying, but whenever I think about crying, I experience severe pain in my temples, as if something is preventing me from crying.
When I really can't take it anymore and need to cry to release my emotions, I have to endure the headache, which is very distressing.
Doctor, is it normal for my head to hurt before I cry? Should I get it checked? I found information online that only mentions headaches after crying, but mine starts before I cry.
Thank you for your help.

Nuli, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/29

Dr. Peng Liyun reply Psychiatry

Hello, thank you for your hard work.
I can sense the pain that illness brings you.
I recommend that you seek assistance again from a psychosomatic specialist.
It is common for psychological factors to influence physical health.
The headaches you described may be related to your emotions (often, the urge to cry occurs during heightened emotional states).
Additionally, please monitor your blood pressure at that moment to see if the headaches are caused by elevated blood pressure.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you well.

Dr.
Peng Liyun
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Chianan Psychiatric Hospital

Reply Date: 2021/09/29

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex interplay of emotional distress and physical symptoms, particularly headaches that occur before you cry. This situation can be quite challenging, especially given your history of mental health struggles and the feelings of guilt and shame that you have described.
From a mental health perspective, the connection between emotional states and physical symptoms is well-documented. Stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest in various physical forms, including headaches. The tension you feel in your temples before crying could be a physical manifestation of the emotional turmoil you are experiencing. This is often referred to as a tension-type headache, which can be triggered by stress or emotional distress.
When you feel the urge to cry, your body may react to the emotional build-up with physical tension, leading to headaches. This reaction can be exacerbated by your past experiences, such as the guilt and shame you feel from previous suicide attempts. These feelings can create a cycle where emotional pain leads to physical symptoms, which in turn can increase your emotional distress.

It's important to address both the emotional and physical aspects of your experience. Here are some suggestions that may help you manage your symptoms:
1. Seek Professional Help: Given your history and current feelings, it is crucial to work with a mental health professional. They can provide you with coping strategies and therapeutic interventions tailored to your needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for addressing negative thought patterns and emotional distress.

2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises can help you manage stress and reduce the physical tension that may lead to headaches. These techniques can also help you become more aware of your emotions and how they affect your body.

3. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic way to express what you are going through. It may help you process your emotions and reduce the intensity of your feelings of guilt and shame.

4. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can be a powerful tool for managing stress and anxiety. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce feelings of tension.

5. Medication Review: Since you are in a state of medication withdrawal, it may be beneficial to consult with a psychiatrist about your current medication regimen. They can help you navigate this process safely and may suggest alternatives that could alleviate your symptoms.

6. Support System: Lean on your support system, including your mother and any friends or family members you trust. Sharing your feelings with someone who understands can provide relief and help you feel less isolated.

7. Monitor Triggers: Keep track of when your headaches occur and any associated emotional states. This can help you identify patterns and triggers, which can be useful information to share with your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, the headaches you experience before crying are likely linked to the emotional distress you are feeling. It is essential to address both the emotional and physical aspects of your situation through professional help, self-care strategies, and support from loved ones. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you navigate these challenges.

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