Skip to main content

Psychosocial Stress Response

Meaning

This term describes the integrated physiological and behavioral reaction of the body to perceived threats or challenges that originate from social or psychological sources, rather than purely physical danger. This response is mediated primarily by the activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system, leading to the release of cortisol and catecholamines. Chronic activation due to unmanaged psychosocial stress is a major driver of allostatic load and subsequent hormonal dysfunction. Understanding this response is key to mitigating the impact of modern life on endocrine health.