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Stress Response Regulation

Meaning

The complex physiological and psychological processes managed by the body to maintain or restore homeostasis in the face of internal or external challenges, known as stressors. This regulation is centrally mediated by the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, which governs the release of cortisol, and the sympathetic nervous system. Optimal regulation involves a rapid, proportional response followed by an efficient, timely return to baseline, which is crucial for long-term hormonal and metabolic health.