What is the role of cortisol in the stress response?

Cortisol plays a crucial role in the stress response.

When we experience stress, our body activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This results in the release of cortisol from the adrenal glands. Cortisol helps to mobilize energy reserves, increase blood sugar levels, and suppress the immune system. These physiological changes help us to respond to stressors in our environment.

Cortisol also has a feedback loop with the HPA axis. When cortisol levels rise, they inhibit the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, respectively. This helps to regulate the stress response and prevent excessive cortisol release.

However, chronic stress can lead to dysregulation of the HPA axis and result in excessive cortisol release. This can have negative effects on both physical and mental health, such as increased risk of cardiovascular disease and depression.

Overall, cortisol plays a vital role in the stress response by helping us to respond to stressors and regulating the HPA axis. However, chronic stress can lead to dysregulation of cortisol release and negative health outcomes.