Letter from the Editor
Within the period of only a few months, we have been challenged by profoundly stressful events that have influenced virtually every aspect of our day-to-day lives. The COVID-19 pandemic and the recent civil unrest have produced a pervasive sense of unease. The stress accompanying that unease impairs our ability to cope gracefully and healthfully with whatever obstacles we must face.
As has been emphasized in previous issues, migraine thrives on abrupt change and is especially triggered or aggravated by stress. We are now confronted by both: sudden and destabilizing change coupled with acute and persistent stress. Not surprisingly, my in-person and telemedicine clinics have been heavily populated by migraine patients whose headache disorders have flared consequent to stress-inducing events beyond their control.
For all of us, migraineurs and non-migraineurs alike, maintaining good health is a question of balance...a balance of stimulation and relaxation, socialization and solitude, rest, and exercise. Trying to achieve balance in a time this chaotic is no simple feat.
Even so, even in these difficult days, we must make the effort. The Hopi have an unpronounceable but highly appropriate word for what we now are experiencing: koyaanisqatsi , used to describe a life (or world) that is "unbalanced". For the Hopi, to lose balance is to lose one's way, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
Maintaining balance is especially important to the migraineur, as giving in to stress and becoming "unbalanced" inevitably will increase migraine burden...which, in turn, will create yet more stress and imbalance. A vicious cycle.
Do whatever work you must, but also make time for yourself. If you feel the stress building, disengage. Find a place outdoors that is safe, peaceful, and appealing, and go for a walk. Practice self-relaxation techniques; if you have no experience in that area, ask for help. There are many, many apps available that will assist you practicing in what has become known as "cognitive behavioral therapy" (CBT). Eat well. Get enough sleep (try CBT if you are experiencing insomnia). Exercise regularly. Be patient with yourself and those around you. If you begin to feel awash in self-pity, do something kind for another person.
This, too, shall end, and until it does let's do our best to behave with grace and charity. Migraine or no migraine.
As always, any question, comment, or potential contribution from the readership will be welcomed. Please address them to edoffice@migraineurmagazine.com.