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Relational Stress

Meaning

The chronic, low-grade, or acute physiological burden imposed on an individual’s neuroendocrine system as a result of ongoing interpersonal conflict, lack of social support, or emotional strain within significant relationships. This form of psychosocial stress is a powerful activator of the HPA axis, often leading to sustained elevations in cortisol and systemic inflammation. Clinically, it is a non-obvious yet potent contributor to hormonal dysregulation.