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Cortisol Impact on Memory

Meaning

Cortisol Impact on Memory refers to the direct and dose-dependent influence of the stress hormone cortisol on the neurobiological processes responsible for encoding, consolidating, and retrieving information. Acute, transient elevations of cortisol often facilitate the consolidation of emotionally significant memories, enhancing survival-related learning. Conversely, chronic or excessive exposure to elevated cortisol levels is detrimental, frequently leading to impaired recall and structural changes in memory-critical brain regions like the hippocampus. This bidirectional effect underscores the delicate balance of the stress response system.