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Cortisol Habituation Breaking

Meaning

Cortisol Habituation Breaking is a therapeutic concept aimed at disrupting the chronic, maladaptive pattern of diminished cortisol responsiveness that can develop from prolonged exposure to persistent, low-grade psychological or physiological stress. This state, often characterized by a blunted cortisol awakening response or a flattened diurnal curve, indicates a form of HPA axis dysregulation where the system has become habituated to the stressor, resulting in inadequate hormonal output. The clinical objective is to restore the adrenal gland’s appropriate sensitivity and reactivity to acute stimuli. Successful intervention revitalizes the HPA axis, promoting a more dynamic and adaptive stress response.