An Evaluation of Brief Online Hypnosis for Migraine and Tension-type Headaches

An Evaluation of Brief Online Hypnosis for Migraine and Tension-type Headaches

This study aims to conduct an initial evaluation of whether a single, online, group-based session of hypnosis followed by self-hypnosis can decrease symptoms of migraine and tension-type headaches as well as improve quality of life and perceived self-efficacy over the condition.

This study is a pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing a single, online, group-based session of hypnosis followed by self-hypnosis for people with migraines or tension-type headaches with a wait-list control. A battery of self-report measures and a 2-week headache diary will be administered online at baseline (weeks 0 and 1), post-intervention (weeks 7 and 8) and at follow-up (weeks 11 and 12).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Self-reported diagnosis of migraine or tension-type headaches from a General Practitioner (i.e. family physician) and/or specialist physician.
• Score above the cut-off for either migraine or tension-type headache on the Headache Screening Questionnaire.
• Have experienced at least one headache every two weeks over the last 3 months.
• Otherwise healthy physically and mentally.
• Able to understand written and spoken English.
• Have the IT equipment necessary to access Zoom videoconferencing and the Qualtrics survey system.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Substantial medical or psychiatric co-morbidities including diagnoses of epilepsy, psychosis or personality disorder, and/or taking psychiatric medication.
• A diagnosis of medication overuse headache.