Broken hearts are real. They are caused by lots of emotional or physical stress. This stress can come from losing someone you love. Doctors think they have a cure for it. Researchers at a university in Scotland conducted a 12-week test on 76 people with a broken heart. The patients all had weekly counselling. They also took part in an exercise programme. This included aerobics, cycling and swimming. The British Heart Foundation said it was surprised by how much the counselling "improved heart function and patients' fitness".

Hundreds of thousands of people have broken heart syndrome. It affects women most and can double the risk of dying early. It may explain why a spouse dies soon after their partner's death. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. The illness makes the heart change shape. It becomes rounder, like an octopus. "Takotsubo" is a Japanese word. It means a round pot used to catch an octopus. The lead researcher said his research highlights the importance of the brain-heart relationship. He said mental and physical therapy can help people.