The Power of Words

"The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy, we can all sense a mysterious connection to each other."Maya Angleou

The Power of Words: How language Shapes Healing in Migraine Care
 @ Ms. Irons Sharpens

"The only way you're going to be out of pain is to be dead". These were the words that a neurologist expressed to me as his Physician Assistant looked on. The initial shock left me speechless and totally in awe that a person who took an oath to do no harm could say such a thing. I left that appointment feeling angry and discouraged. After a phone call with a good friend, she reminded me of my unique perspective on the communication gap between patients and doctors.

Here is the reality, the words we speak matter and are medicine they can either bring life or death.

In every exam room, consultation, or patient portal message, language sets the tone for trust, safety, and healing. For people living with migraine, words carry even more weight because so many have already heard the wrong ones.

Words Can Wound

For years, patients with chronic migraine have heard phrases like “It’s just a headache,” or “Maybe it’s stress.”

Those words don’t just miss the mark they deepen the disconnect and reinforce the message that their pain isn’t real, that they’re overreacting, or that relief is out of reach.

Unintentionally, providers can silence patients by using language that minimizes, blames, or rushes past their lived experience.

Words Can Heal

Empathy doesn’t always require more time sometimes it just requires better words.

Simple reframes make a powerful difference:

Instead of…Try saying…

“You need to manage your triggers.” “Let’s identify what’s within your control and what’s not together.”

“Your scans look normal.” “It’s frustrating when tests don’t explain your pain. Let’s keep digging.”

“We’ve tried everything.”“You’ve tried so much and I know that takes courage. Let’s explore what’s next.”

Healing language validates without overpromising and honors the patient’s effort while reinforcing partnership.

The Ripple Effect of Compassionate Communication

When providers choose their words with intention, patients feel heard, respected, and safe.

That psychological safety often leads to:

More accurate reporting of symptoms

Higher treatment adherence

Reduced ER visits and repeat appointments

Stronger provider satisfaction

The result?

Better outcomes for patients — and less frustration for clinicians.

The Advocate’s Role

As advocates, we can bridge the gap by teaching providers the art of compassionate communication.We can model phrases that honor lived experience and remind care teams that every interaction no matter how short is a chance to affirm dignity.

Because sometimes, healing begins with a single sentence.

Call to Action:

What’s one phrase that you have used with migraine patients?

Share it, let’s build a language of healing together.

Stay tuned for next weeks blog as I continue sharing this journey of perseverance setbacks, small victories, and hope. Schedule a consultation here: https://ironsconsultinggroupllc.com/contactus

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