A long-lasting response to stress primarily involves the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which leads to the release of cortisol, a key stress hormone. This response can result in physiological changes such as increased heart rate, heightened alertness, and alterations in immune function. Chronic stress can also impact mental health, leading to anxiety and depression. Additionally, behavioral responses, such as changes in eating and sleeping patterns, often emerge as individuals cope with prolonged stress.
The main gland involved in the stress response is the adrenal gland. When faced with stress, the hypothalamus signals the adrenal glands to release hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones help the body respond to stress by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and energy availability. This response is part of the body's fight-or-flight mechanism.
The stria terminalis is involved in the stress response, emotion regulation, and fear processing in the brain. It plays a role in connecting regions involved in the stress response and integrating emotional and cognitive information.
The amygdala and hypothalamus are involved in the emotional response to sadness, triggering the release of stress hormones like cortisol. The lacrimal glands produce tears in response to these emotional cues.
Acetylcholine is the primary neurotransmitter involved in stimulating the sweat glands to produce sweat. Its release activates sweat production in response to heat, exercise, stress, or emotional stimuli.
The ALARM response
Stress
Epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) and norepinephrine are the two major neurotransmitters involved in the fight or flight response. The main hormone involved in the stress response is cortisol.
Stress and anxiety are often used interchangeably but there are differences between the two. Stress is a response to an event that causes physiological stress in the body, while anxiety is a response to an event that causes psychological stress.
Hypothalamus-Pituitary-AdrenalThe diagram below depicts the key components connecting the brain, the immune system and stress (http://www.nih.gov/news/WordonHealth/oct2000/story01.htm).
yes alot of stress
Your Brain
smoking