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Physiological Threat Interpretation

Meaning

Physiological threat interpretation is the internal, subconscious process by which the brain and the neuroendocrine system evaluate various internal and external stimuli, such as blood sugar instability, sleep deprivation, or perceived psychological danger, as a potential survival threat. This interpretation triggers the activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system, initiating a stress response. The clinical relevance lies in the fact that chronic misinterpretation of non-lethal stressors as severe threats leads to persistent hormonal dysregulation, driving symptoms of chronic stress and burnout.