NOTE: In offering a list of stress-reduction practices, Tina refers to both the third and fourth items as "Number Three." Please don't be distracted by the misnumbering; there are five separate items in the list.

Many parents of estranged adult children know the pain of a broken heart. But for some, Broken Heart Syndrome becomes a medical crisis.

Also known as Takotsubo Syndrome or stress cardiomyopathy, Broken Heart Syndrome mimics the experience of a heart attack. But rather than being caused by blocked arteries, it's caused by a stress-induced temporary abnormality that usually resolves itself.

Still, Broken Heart Syndrome can lead to life-threatening complications. If you have chest pain or shortness of breath, or suspect you may be having heart problems, seek medical help immediately.

This episode doesn't constitute or contain medical advice.

Instead, Tina offers specific research-supported tips to help you try to reduce the risk of developing Broken Heart Syndrome and other stress-related health problems, over time.

You can't end your adult child's estrangement at will. But you can make personal decisions every day that protect, rather than jeopardize, your health -- even during an unwanted and emotionally stressful estrangement.

For concrete ideas on how to repair your parent-adult child relationship, read Tina's book, Reconnecting With Your Estranged Adult Child.

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RESOURCES:

Takotsubo syndrome

Experiential avoidance

Constructive Wallowing

Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker