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Psychological Stress

Meaning

Psychological Stress is the subjective appraisal of an environmental demand exceeding an individual’s perceived coping resources, which triggers a cascade of neuro-hormonal responses designed for adaptation. Clinically, chronic or unmanaged psychological stress leads to sustained activation of the HPA axis, resulting in elevated circulating glucocorticoids, most notably cortisol. This dysregulation significantly impacts metabolic function, immune surveillance, and can negatively influence gonadal hormone production via central suppression. Managing this state is paramount for endocrine health.