No matter what stresses you out, your body's response is to release the hormone cortisol. If you have a mood disorder such as anxiety or depression then you can bet that your body is also crankingup this powerful hormone. Poor lifestyle choices like not getting enough sleep can also contribute to stress. The question is, how do you know when the stress you're experiencing is harming you?
When we experience stress, it triggers a chemical reaction called "fight or flight" response which leads to the production of cortisol and adrenalin. This is designed to help us from perceived threats. If you always feel tense or anxious, then your body will constantly be producing cortisol and adrenalin and this can eventually lead to "adrenal fatigue". The result can be lack of stamina, depression, increased food cravings and weakened immunity.
