What is the Origin of Chronic Stress Mechanisms?

The foundation of this concept lies in the work on the stress response by Hans Selye, specifically his General Adaptation Syndrome, and the later refinement by neuroendocrinologists focusing on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis. The term "chronic" denotes the pathological persistence of this response, distinguishing it from the transient, beneficial nature of acute stress.

What is the Mechanism of Chronic Stress Mechanisms?

The primary mechanism is the chronic hyperactivation or eventual blunting of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. Persistent stress causes the hypothalamus to continuously release corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), driving the pituitary to secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which then stimulates the adrenal glands to overproduce cortisol. This sustained hypercortisolemia can lead to glucocorticoid receptor desensitization, impaired negative feedback, chronic inflammation, and visceral fat deposition, severely disrupting metabolic and hormonal homeostasis.

Chronic Stress Mechanisms ∞ Area

Chronic Stress Mechanisms

Meaning

Chronic Stress Mechanisms describe the sustained physiological and neuroendocrine adaptations resulting from prolonged exposure to psychological or physical stressors. This state moves beyond an acute, adaptive response to a state of allostatic overload and dysregulation. The persistent activation of these pathways compromises immune function, metabolic health, and cognitive resilience. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for mitigating the long-term, degenerative effects of stress on the body.

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HRTioSeptember 5, 2025

Chronic Stress Mechanisms

Meaning

Origin

Mechanism

What Are the Legal Protections against Mandatory Workplace Wellness Programs?

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