Headaches can be frustrating but can also be a window into something deeper. Many people don’t realise that headaches in children are often connected to subclinical anxiety and depression. A recent study published in JAMA Neurology, sheds light on this connection in adults and teenagers, showing that people diagnosed with migraines, tension headaches, and posttraumatic headaches face a much higher risk of struggling with serious mental health challenges, including suicide.

Understanding the Study’s Findings

The study, conducted on a Danish adult population of over 119,000 individuals with headache diagnoses, revealed that even at the age of 15, the risk of attempting and completing suicide amongst those suffering from headaches is more than 2.3 times higher compared to the general population. If headaches are connected to stress, anxiety, or depression, addressing the emotional side is just as important as managing the physical discomfort. But how is this managed in children?

How the Dr. Mooves A&D App Can Help

At Dr. Mooves A&D, we know the link between mind and body. Our app, patented by the U.S. trains kid’s brains in a fun and engaging cognitive way by dancing. It does more than get you moving. It boosts key brain skills tied to managing subclinical feelings and stress.

1. Building Emotional Resilience Research shows that individuals, even kids, with stronger inhibitory control, stronger working memory, and stronger cognitive flexibility are better equipped to manage subclinical stress and anxiety. Our dance routines are designed to enhance these executive functions, along with a wide range of other cognitive and emotional skills. See our patented list of 34  This helps users, neurotypical latency-aged kids 5-12 years old, build a more comprehensive toolkit for managing subclinical stress and, allowing them to cope with distressing thoughts and emotions more effectively when they become older and early teens.
2. On the non-cognitive side, engaging in structured, rhythmic movement has also been shown to boost mood by stimulating dopamine and serotonin production neurotransmitters that play a key role in emotional well-being.
3. Furthermore, promoting Mindfulness and Relaxation Dance and movement are natural forms of mindfulness, requiring participants to focus on rhythm, coordination, and body awareness. Most of these are word-driven, unlike Dr MOOVES A&D which has no words.

According to the JAMA Neurology study, early intervention is crucial for those with headaches. The Dr. Mooves A&D App takes a proactive approach to training cognitive skills, helping individuals become more resilient to later mental health risks like managing stress and staying emotionally balanced. All while being fun, engaging, and science-backed.

Join Us in Prioritizing Subclinical Anxiety and Depression,  Mental and Physical Health

If your child has headaches, consider integrating the Dr. Mooves A&D app into your routine. Together, we can reshape how we approach resilience one step, one move, and one dance at a time.