The Headaches Project
Who we are
This project is a unique clinical research collaboration between Cambridge University Hospital paediatric neurology and psychiatry services, and the Autism Research Centre at the University of Cambridge. It brings together Cambridge University Hospital’s vision of integrated mental and physical healthcare, alongside world-leading research.
The project is also known as The SHINE Study (Screening Headache Patients for Neurodiversity and Emotional-behavioural Difficulties).
What we want to find out
Children with chronic physical health problems may experience mental health problems because of their long-term symptoms of pain and discomfort and the impact this can have on their life, for example, missed school days, disrupted social life and inability to participate in previously enjoyed pastimes.
We want to find out about the levels of mental health needs in children and young people attending a paediatric outpatient headache clinic and whether these additional mental health needs affect headache treatment and quality of life.
In addition, there is growing recognition that the mind and body are linked, and that psychological stress can impact young people physically as well as emotionally. For instance, it is common in people feeling sad and worried to feel tired, experience poor sleep and lose their appetite. Emerging research suggests that some neurodiverse young people, particularly autistic individuals, may be more vulnerable to psychological overwhelm due to differences in experiencing, identifying, understanding and processing emotions. As a result, they may be more likely to experience stress in ways that affect physical health. We want to find out whether there is a link between neurodiversity, mental health and the experience of headache.
Why we’re doing this research
We think that additional mental health difficulties may impact headache treatment and quality of life. Establishing this link will be the first step in allowing psychiatrists and psychologists to work with neurologists to improve the mental health care provided to children and young people presenting with headaches. We want to gain as accurate a picture as possible of the mental health needs of children and young people presenting with headache so care can be better tailored to their needs.
Method
We aim to offer screening questionnaires for mental health, including autism, to all new patients referred to paediatric neurology at Cambridge University Hospital for headache or migraine over a three-year period. Where autism is identified as a possibility, patients will have access to a discussion with an NHS consultant specialising in autism and a full autism assessment will be offered if appropriate.
Community engagement
We worked with four parents of autistic children, including those with headache, through a focus group. Together, we discussed the aim and purpose of the research, and how the findings could be useful. Members of the group reviewed the research proposal and offered insight and suggestions.
Potential impact
This study will help us understand the mental health needs of young people with headache and their families. The findings will support better planning and delivery of care that meets young people’s needs.
If autistic young people are found to be more vulnerable to headaches, this study will provide evidence for further research in this area and the development of appropriate support, treatment, and care pathways.
Results
We anticipate sharing the results in 2029. When ready, the key findings will be shared on this page.
Funding
This study is made possible thanks to existing grants held by the Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge. The principal investigator’s employment is funded by Northeast London NHS Foundation Trust.
Staff
Professor Sir Simon Baron-Cohen
Dr Deepa Krishnakumar, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Dr Gautam Ambegaonkar, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Dr Susie Walker, Consultant Paediatric Liaison Psychiatrist, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
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