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Physiological Stress Response

Meaning

The Physiological Stress Response is the coordinated, adaptive reaction of the body’s neuroendocrine and autonomic nervous systems to perceived or actual threats, or stressors, aimed at restoring homeostasis. This response is primarily mediated by the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the Sympathetic-Adrenal-Medullary (SAM) system, resulting in the rapid release of catecholamines and glucocorticoids, such as cortisol. While acute activation is essential for survival and performance, chronic or dysregulated activation can lead to allostatic overload, negatively impacting metabolic health, immune function, and hormonal balance.