Stress Response System

When we are stressed or in a dangerous situation, a part of our brain, called the amygdala, senses fear and stress. The amygdala then activates the stress centres, called the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenalcortical axis (HPA axis). The HPA axis then releases hormones such as cortisol. This response causes glucose to be released into the blood stream to be used for energy, to increase heart rate, and blood flow to muscles. After the stressful situation has passed, the body works to return the hormone levels back to normal.

If we are stressed all of the time, our HPA axis is over-stimulated and continues to produce the hormones associated with stress. This causes digestive problems, sleeping problems, and mental clarity will be compromised. Many other functions will be compromised when the body does not reduce stress hormones to normal levels.

Reference:

Caldwell, Alison. "The Neuroscience of Stress." BrainFacts. June 19, 2018. Accessed June 21, 2018. https://www.brainfacts.org/Thinking-Sensing-and-Behaving/Emotions-Stress-and-Anxiety/2018/The-Neuroscience-of-Stress-061918.