Dating can be a challenge for anyone, but if you have migraines it can be even harder. Migraine attacks can make it hard to get out, and with so many traditional dating activities–like going out for dinner and drinks or dancing–as potential migraine triggers, you might be reluctant to get involved.
But as with so many things in life, you can enjoy dating when you have migraines, it just takes a little more planning, effort, and patience. Here are some tips that can help you enjoy dates and find someone special despite your migraines.
Tip #1: Pick the Right Time to Mention Migraines
You don’t have to mention your migraines on your first date. After all, you are not your migraines, and they don’t have to limit or define you. You can postpone mentioning them, even if a migraine causes you to reschedule a date. Just be honest and say you’re not feeling well.
On the other hand, don’t lie about your migraines, and don’t put them off too long. As your relationship seems like it’s going to be more than just a casual one, it’s time to talk about migraines and let your potential partner know what they are getting in for.
Tip #2: Be Honest When Discussing Migraines
If someone is considering a life with you, they need to really understand what your migraines are like. Talk to them about your personal experiences–they can look up facts and statistics elsewhere–but what they really need to know is how migraines will impact your life together.
Tip #3: Share the Good Times
When you’re feeling good, enjoy your time together as much as you can. Knowing that these moments are going to be more limited should make them more special, and you both can enjoy that.
Tip #4: And the Bad
Someone who really loves you is going to want to know what they can do to help when you’re having a migraine attack. So give them something they can do. Even if it’s just leaving you alone, impress on them how important that is, and put it in the context of how helpful it is.
Tip #5: Don’t Be Afraid to Speak
You have to speak up about avoiding activities that are going to cause your migraines. You should also speak up when you are in pain and can’t do anything. And, of course, as we said above, make sure you tell your partner if you just need them to leave you alone.
Tip #6: And Listen
Although migraines are your condition and you’ve lived with them all your life, that doesn’t mean you won’t benefit from an outside perspective. This doesn’t mean turning over control, but it does mean sharing your illness.
Tip #7: Don’t Stop Looking for Love–or Treatment
And you shouldn’t give up on trying to find a migraine treatment that will help you enjoy a better quality of life.
To see whether TMJ treatment might help your migraines, please call (803) 781-9090 for an appointment with a Columbia, SC TMJ dentist at Smile Columbia Dentistry.
