Toning Down the Brain's Alarm System

摘要

When faced with danger, the brain initiates a chemical cascade that primes you to put 'em up or run away. In turn, a series of chemicals in the brain can dampen this response, thereby promoting resilience to stress. One key chemical cycle begins when the hypothalamus releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), causing the pituitary gland to secrete adrenocorticotro-pin hormone (ACTH) into the bloodstream, which triggers the adrenal glands (near the kidneys) to release the hormone corti-sol. Cortisol heightens the body's ability to respond to challenging situations, but too much can over time cause lasting damage.