THE ANXIETY FIX: How do I get rid of Stress Headaches

Stress headaches or tension headaches are exceptionally common. But how do you get rid of stress headaches?! It is often difficult and painful.

It’s thought that up to 80% of adults suffer at some point in their lives. For some of us, it’s the odd headache that passes quickly without causing us too much distress.

For other people, it’s a much more serious issue. Our tension headaches hit whenever we’re feeling stressed, tense, anxious, or worried. They stick around, making it hard to focus, sleep, or enjoy our regular life. In periods of particular stress, it can feel as though these headaches are a constant companion. 

Then, of course, there’s a danger of getting trapped in a vicious circle. We’re stressed out, so we get a headache. The headache gets worse, and so we get more stressed out. Which, of course, makes the headache worse. 

Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be like this. There’s plenty that you can do to relieve your symptoms and perhaps even say goodbye to your headaches completely. 

Here are my top tips for getting rid of stress headaches…

Credit: Pexels

Rule Out Other Conditions

First things first, are you absolutely 100% sure your headaches are caused by stress? Tension or stress headaches tend to cause neck and shoulder aches, as well as a feeling of pressure across the forehead, or down the sides and back of the head.

They can focus on one particular area, or feel more like a dull aching pain all over. Unlikely migraines, they don’t typically cause changes to vision, nausea, or other symptoms. 

If your eyesight has changed, the first thing to do is rule out problems with your vision. Get your eyes tests, and see if a trendy pair of Ted Baker glasses could solve the problem.

If you have other symptoms or your headaches are getting worse, consider a visit to your doctor to rule out other conditions. 

Understand the Cause

Tension headaches are typically caused by, well, tension. We get a headache when we’re wound up; when our muscles are tight, our mind is racing and when we’re struggling to get a good night’s sleep. 

Often the simplest way to deal with these headaches is to eliminate their cause. Of course, it’s not always that easy, but if you can identify the reason for your stress, you might be able to confront it, dealing with your problems, talking through worries, and moving on. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy can also help a huge amount, and it’s always worth considering. What is cognitive behavioral therapy? Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is all about challenging the way you think about yourself, and the way you think others perceive you, and creating coping strategies to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. 

Give Yoga A Go

Yoga is a fantastic way to deal with stress, both physically and emotionally. Yoga gives you a way to focus your mind, but also a way to reduce tension in your muscles and ease any inflammation which it may have caused. Try a simple yoga routine either in the morning or before bed, to rest your body and mind. 

Spend Time Meditating

Meditation isn’t for everyone. Many people find the idea of being still and clearing their minds daunting. In fact, many people find meditation pretty stressful in itself. 

But, it is certainly worth a try. Check out these mediation tips for help and give it a chance before deciding it’s not for you. 

Get Some Fresh Air

Fresh air can be much more effective than you might imagine, especially if you’ve been spending a lot of time indoors, busy working and getting stressed out.

Down tools and go for a long walk outdoors. Don’t put any pressure on yourself to hit step counts or get anywhere quickly. Just walk. Preferably somewhere peaceful, with a nice view and lots of nature. 

Try Massage

Massage can be an excellent way to reduce tension and soothe any aching muscles that might have come with your headache. Paying for a massage, or asking a partner to rub your neck and shoulders can be nice.

But, even if you are alone, gently apply pressure to your shoulders and neck, focusing on tense spots, and stopping before you feel any discomfort. 

Drink More Water

Drinking more water can be a bit of a miracle cure. Good hydration can ease many different symptoms, including tension headaches. 

Switch Off

Switching your devices off and cutting your screen time can help ease tension headaches in different ways.

First, it will help you to sleep, especially if you turn off for an hour or so before bed. Secondly, it can take you away from a common stressor, social media, and other digital platforms. 

Find Ways to Relax

Relaxation is different for everyone. Yoga and meditation will work for some, not all. You need to find your own ways to relax. Try things out. Take a long, hot bubble bath. Go for walks. Read a book.

Watch your favourite cheesy movie, or treat yourself to a takeaway and a glass of wine. Find your own way, but know that it might not always be the same. Give your body and mind what it needs, when it needs it, and don’t be scared to experiment. 

My Travel Tips and Recommendations

Flights

To book flights, I always use flight search engine, Skyscanner, I regularly use the Everywhere tool to find the cheapest places to travel. It’s how I get to travel so much all around the world. I find it the easiest way to compare flight prices across airlines and get the best deals. 

Accommodation

For accommodation, I usually book most of my hotels or hostels through Booking.com. I love using this platform as it provides me with some amazing deals for accommodation all around the world. Or if you prefer, I also recommend using Airbnb. If you haven’t signed up with Airbnb already, you can use this link to get £25 off your first visit!

Photography and Technology

Here is a list of the technology I always travel with:

• Canon G7X Mark II
• Canon EOS M50 and lens
• GoPro Hero Black 7
• DJI Mavic Pro
• RØDE VideoMic GO On Microphone

Travel Insurance

Picking travel insurance that covers you in all eventualities is an essential part of planning a trip for every single person. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You never know what’s around the corner. World Nomads is an affordable option that I personally recommend. BOOK HERE

You can also find me on social media: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

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Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! If you have any questions about the destination please leave these in the comments below.

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Sophie X