What hormone is mainly linked to the body's response to stress?

Cortisol is the primary hormone associated with the body's response to stress. When an individual faces a stressful situation, the hypothalamus in the brain triggers the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). This hormone then stimulates the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which travels to the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands subsequently produce cortisol.

Cortisol plays a crucial role in the body's "fight or flight" reaction, helping to prepare the body to respond to stress. It increases blood sugar levels, enhances the metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, and plays a key role in suppressing non-essential functions in a stressful situation, such as the immune response. Prolonged exposure to elevated cortisol levels can lead to detrimental effects on health, including anxiety, depression, and various physical health issues.

Other hormones such as adrenaline (which is involved in the immediate stress response), serotonin (often associated with mood regulation), and oxytocin (sometimes known as the "love hormone," which facilitates bonding and social interactions) do not primarily control the stress response in the body like cortisol does. This distinction highlights cortisol's specific and critical role in managing stress effectively.