One-day behavioral treatment for patients with comorbid depression and migraine: A pilot study

BackgroundMigraine is a common and disabling disorder that is highly comorbid with depression. The comorbidity of depression and migraine is a major health concern as it results in poorer prognosis and quality of life. Yet, effective treatments have rarely been investigated.Method45 patients with comorbid migraine and depression were assigned to a 1-day Acceptance and Commitment Training plus Migraine Education workshop (ACT-ED; N = 31) or to Wait List/Treatment as Usual (WL/TAU; N = 14). Assessment of depressive symptoms, general functioning, and migraine related disability were completed at baseline and 2-, 6-, and 12 weeks after the workshop.ResultsAt the 3-month follow up, participants in the ACT-ED condition exhibited significantly greater improvements in depressive symptoms, general functioning, and migraine-related disability than patients in the WL/TAU group.ConclusionA 1-day ACT-ED workshop is a promising approach to the treatment for depression and disability in migraineurs that merits further investigation.

► Patients with depression and migraine are assigned to 1-day treatment or waitlist.
► Treatment is based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Migraine Education.
► We examine changes in depressive symptoms, functioning, and quality of life.
► At 3-month follow-up, the treatment group exhibited significant improvements.
► 1-day treatment can improve depression and functioning for depressed migraineurs.