In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become an unavoidable part of our lives. Whether it’s due to work pressures, relationship issues, or financial struggles, stress can take a toll on our mental and physical well-being. One hormone that plays a crucial role in our stress response is cortisol. Understanding what cortisol is and how it affects our bodies is essential in recognizing the signs of high stress and taking steps to manage it effectively. Let’s find out what cortisol is, the difference between acute stress and chronic stress, and identify eight common symptoms of high cortisol levels. From there, we can better understand how to lower cortisol levels and stress.

What is Cortisol?

Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands, which are located on top of our kidneys. It is often referred to as the “stress hormone” as it is released in response to stress. Cortisol helps regulate a variety of bodily functions, including metabolism, blood pressure, and immune response. In short bursts, cortisol can be beneficial and help us deal with immediate stressful situations. However, when cortisol levels remain elevated for extended periods, it can have detrimental effects on our health. (1)