Evaluation of the relationship among patients with chronic headache and partner

Introduction Few studies evaluate the relationship between patients with chronic headache and their partner. So, the main objective of the study is to assess if there is a common relational model among patients with chronic headache and their partner; the secondary objective is to assess the mental representation that the partner has with regard to headache, and the social support perceived by the patient. Materials and methods Twelve patients with chronic headache and partners who referred to the Headache Centre of Policlinico of Modena were enrolled. Data were carried out using a semi-structured interview (narrative interview). All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and qualitatively analyzed according to the model of the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results The patients recognized "the emotional closeness of partners" but not the effective support. The perceived social support offered by the significant person is not a source for approaching difficulties and limitations of headache. Only patients that had an “open” comparison with partner, above all, in the negative interactions, better managed the disease and showed a better adaptive response. Discussion and conclusions The negative communication with partners is a source of stress and could aggravate perception of pain. A group intervention for patients and partners would be desirable to improve perception of social support and for suggest a potential coping strategy for the management of chronic headache.