It is one of the most common precipitating factors of migraine. Migraine sufferers are thought to be highly responsive emotionally, reacting quickly and easily to stress. In times of emotional stress, certain chemicals are released that provoke the vascular changes that cause a migraine headache. The attacks become more frequent in periods of increased stress.
Factors related to stress include anxiety, worry, shock, depression, excitement, and mental fatigue.
Repressed emotions can also precipitate migraine headaches, and the muscle tension often brought on by stress situations can add to the severity of the headache. After a stressful period there may be a letdown which can, in itself, trigger a migraine headache. The arteries may be constricted by prolonged stress, and when the individual is finally able to relax, the blood vessels may dilate, causing the headache. This may be one reason for weekend headaches. Attacks occurring during a relaxation period, after stress, can often be helped by modifying the stressful periods and keeping busier during leisure times.