So You Just Got Diagnosed with Chronic Migraine? Here’s What to Do Next…
Receiving a chronic migraine diagnosis can feel overwhelming — trust me, I’ve been there. I’ve lived with migraine since I was 11 years old, and my neurologist even believes I’ve had it since infancy (apparently colic can be an early sign!). After years of navigating symptoms, treatments, and frustration, I’ve learned a lot about living with migraine, and I’m sharing my best tips for what to do next.
1. Take a Deep Breath and Validate What You’re Feeling
A migraine diagnosis is life-changing. It’s okay to feel scared, confused, or even angry. Chronic migraine is not “just a headache.” It’s a neurological condition that can be disabling and unpredictable. Give yourself grace as you process everything.
2. Learn About Your Condition from Trusted Sources
Knowledge really is power here. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with chronic, vestibular, or hemiplegic migraine, learning from reliable resources helps you feel more in control. I recommend checking out:
The Dizzy Cook for migraine-safe recipes and tips
3. Make Gentle Lifestyle Adjustments
Lifestyle changes alone can’t “cure” migraine, but they can make a big difference. Start small — daily walks (even 10 slow minutes), light stretching, and anti-inflammatory foods can all help calm your system.
If you’re ready to adjust your diet, download my Free Heal Your Headache Diet Printable. It lists migraine-safe foods in a cute, easy-to-follow format.
4. Find Community and Support
One of the hardest parts of chronic illness is the isolation. That’s why I created the Balanced Babe Discord Group, a supportive space for anyone living with chronic illness. We share memes, vent, celebrate small wins, and remind each other we’re not alone.
5. Track Your Symptoms and Treatments
Keeping track of your symptoms helps you notice patterns and triggers. My Balanced Babe Symptom Tracker is designed to help you do just that. It’s pretty, easy to use, and created specifically for chronically ill babes.
6. Explore Helpful Tools
A few products that have helped me manage my symptoms include:
CEFALY — a neuromodulation device that stimulates the trigeminal nerve to relieve pain
BUOY Electrolytes — great for hydration and available with a chronic illness discount
Soul CBD Gummies — a legal, gentle THC-CBD blend that helps with pain relief
7. Prioritize Mental Health
Living with a chronic condition can be emotionally exhausting. Finding a therapist, practicing self-care, and surrounding yourself with understanding people can make a huge difference.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve just been diagnosed with migraine, please know this — you are not alone. This journey is hard, but you are stronger than you realize. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into your migraine life, I’m sending you so much love and encouragement. 💙
