The analysis found that more than 40% of adults with chronic headache conditions experience symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Chronic headaches were defined as occurring on more than 15 days per month or lasting longer than three months.
Across 48 eligible studies, researchers reported that 43.1% of adults with chronic headaches had clinical symptoms of anxiety, while 45.9% showed symptoms of depression.
Compared with people without headaches, those with chronic headaches were nearly five times more likely to experience depression and more than seven times more likely to experience anxiety.
They were also more than twice as likely to report both conditions compared with individuals who suffer from episodic headaches.
The findings highlight the urgent need for improved mental health screening and treatment among people with chronic headache disorders.
Previous research has shown similar social and health patterns. The 2010 American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention study found that individuals with chronic migraine had lower household incomes, were less likely to work full time, and were more likely to experience occupational disability than those with episodic migraine.
They were also more likely to report respiratory illnesses such as asthma and bronchitis, as well as cardiovascular risk factors including hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and obesity.
Researchers note that chronic pain conditions show comparable mental health trends, reinforcing the need for targeted psychological support, particularly for women and younger patients.
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