How does cortisol affect the body's response to stress?

Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," plays a significant role in the body's response to stress. When faced with a stressor, the body releases cortisol to help manage and respond to the situation effectively. One of the critical functions of cortisol is its ability to suppress immune function. This suppression is not merely detrimental; it is part of a larger strategy to redirect energy and resources towards survival mechanisms rather than immune responses, which can take time and energy to mount. When cortisol levels rise, it helps to limit inflammation and can prevent the immune system from overreacting, which could be harmful in the context of stress.

Understanding this mechanism is essential for recognizing how prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, often due to chronic stress, can lead to weakened immune responses, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. Thus, the impact of cortisol on immune function is a crucial aspect of its role in the body's overall stress response.