Stress response pathways

Stress response pathways are the body's way of managing challenges or threats. When you perceive stress, your brain activates systems like the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones prepare your body to respond—raising your heart rate, increasing energy, and sharpening focus. Once the threat subsides, feedback mechanisms help restore balance. This process is essential for survival, but chronic stress can lead to health problems. Overall, stress pathways coordinate physiological reactions to help you tackle immediate challenges while maintaining internal stability.