Headaches from stress: what helps
A tight feeling around your head after a hard day? It often starts in your neck and shoulders.
A stress headache feels like a tight band around your head. It often comes at the end of a hard day, with stiff shoulders and a busy mind. The good news: rest and relaxing usually help.
What is a stress headache?
It is the most common kind of headache. It is a dull, steady ache, often on both sides of the head. It is linked to stress, tiredness and tight muscles in the neck and shoulders.
Why does stress cause it?
When you are under pressure, your jaw clenches, your shoulders lift and your neck gets tight. Add long hours on a screen, missed meals and too little water, and your head starts to ache.
What can I do right now?
Step away from the screen. Drink a glass of water. Eat something if you skipped a meal. Sit somewhere quiet, drop your shoulders and take slow breaths. Gently rub your temples and the back of your neck.
Can a massage help?
Yes, for many people. A calm massage loosens tight neck and shoulder muscles. An hour away from screens and noise also lets your body settle. An aromatherapy massage with calming oils is a good choice. If strong smells give you headaches, ask for a mild oil.
See a doctor if
your headaches come often or get worse, one comes on suddenly and badly, or it comes with blurred vision, weakness, numbness, confusion, fever or a stiff neck.
Frequently asked questions
Can massage help a stress headache?
Many people find it helps by loosening tight neck and shoulder muscles.
Where should I rub for a headache?
Your temples, the back of your neck and the top of your shoulders.
Are smells from oils a problem?
Some people get headaches from strong smells. Ask for a mild oil.
How do I know it is a stress headache?
It is usually a dull, tight ache on both sides of the head after a tense day. A doctor can tell you for sure.
