Divorced women more likely to have a heart attack.

A new study released from Duke Medical Centre showed that women who divorce multiple times were twice as likely to suffer a heart attack than their married counterparts. Even a single divorce showed an increased risk comparatively. This study looked at the cumulative effects of divorce over a long period and one of the first of its kind. The findings were based on responses of more than 15,000 people aged 45 to 80 who had been married at least once.

"Divorce is a major stressor, and we have long known that people who are divorced suffer more health consequences," said Matthew Dupre, associate professor of medicine at Duke University Medical Centre and the study's lead author.

Here are a few ways to deal with the stress of a divorce.

1. Keep a journal. Writing helps free the mind and take a second glance at situations that may help develop alternate ways to deal with stressful situations.

2. Exercise. A natural mood booster, exercising for at least 10 minutes a day can help reduce the harmful stress hormones.

3. Meditation. Being present in the moment and paying attention to your breath is a simple mediation technique. Partner it with affirmations and calming words can also help.

4. Nurture with Nutrition. Eating well helps balance hormones and keep your body healthy.

5. Give Yourself Permission. Emotions are normal and giving yourself the space to feel relaxed, angry, happy, sad are good for stress reduction. Avoid activities that are destructive like drinking or drugs when understanding your feelings.