What is the Origin of Stress-Induced Depletion?

This term is derived from Hans Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome, which posits that the body's response to chronic stress progresses through stages, culminating in exhaustion. The "depletion" aspect emphasizes the tangible reduction in substrate availability, particularly in the context of adrenal steroidogenesis and catecholamine synthesis. It is a central concept in understanding chronic stress and adrenal fatigue.

What is the Mechanism of Stress-Induced Depletion?

Chronic stress triggers the persistent release of ACTH, driving the adrenal glands to continuously produce cortisol, often leading to a phenomenon known as "pregnenolone steal" where precursor steroids are shunted toward cortisol production. This sustained demand depletes the pools of essential cholesterol precursors and cofactors needed for the synthesis of other vital hormones, such as DHEA and progesterone. Simultaneously, the persistent demand for catecholamines and inhibitory neurotransmitters leads to their reduced availability, compromising both physical and psychological resilience.

Stress-Induced Depletion ∞ Area

Stress-Induced Depletion

Meaning

Stress-induced depletion describes the physiological state characterized by the chronic exhaustion and reduced reserve capacity of essential hormones, neurotransmitters, and nutritional cofactors resulting from prolonged or excessive activation of the body’s stress response system. This sustained allostatic load leads to the eventual functional exhaustion of the adrenal glands and the dysregulation of the HPA axis. Clinically, this depletion manifests as chronic fatigue, immune suppression, and hormonal imbalance.