Language Matters
Last updated: December 2021
It may seem like a small thing, yet one of the ways I reduce stress is to reduce the anxiety around migraine—the fear of having a flare.
Factors and flares
Part of how I do that is by changing my language around migraine. I say “factors” instead of “triggers” because, to me, a trigger is violent, and once pulled it’s too late. Factors are neutral. Some factors increase a chance of a flare others reduce the likelihood of or alleviate flares.
I also say “flares” instead of “attacks.” Again, attack sounds so violent and makes me feel in battle mode. Flare is a signaling device. A cry for help. A flare is my body’s way of letting me know that I need to help myself or seek help.
How it helps me
These language shifts empower me and reduce migraine anxiety.
Factors are things I am able to adjust. The stress factor may be unavoidable, but the relax factor is in my control.
A flare is something I am able to attend to rather than fight. These language shifts just feel more gentle and that helps me.
Thanks for reading.
Community Poll
In the past year, has insurance made it difficult to get your migraine treatment?
Join the conversation