Cortisol Dysregulation: Understanding The Nervous System And Stress Regulation
The nervous system can be described as a complex network of nerves, neurons, and electrical impulses that controls the brain and body. One function of this system is to support the stress regulation process, which typically prepares the body to react to stressors. Cortisol is a hormone released during this process, which can be helpful in small bursts. However, some people experience cortisol dysregulation, which can lead to mental health challenges. Learning more about the nervous system and how to reduce stress can be steps toward understanding your body and mind more profoundly. For professional help managing stress, consider working with a licensed therapist.
What is cortisol dysregulation?
The University of Wollongong defines dysregulated cortisol secretion as cortisol levels that remain elevated after a stressor has passed. For some, cortisol may continue to be released for weeks or longer, especially in the case of repeated adverse events that one cannot escape.
Cortisol is a naturally occurring steroid hormone in the nervous system that impacts the digestive system—specifically, the liver and pancreas. Cortisol levels may vary considerably depending on the person. They typically affect the blood glucose production process, helping individuals remain alert and active.
Cortisol is usually not harmful when released in minor amounts or over a short period, as it can help someone take quick and effective action in a stressful or threatening situation. However, long-term cortisol release can lead to several health risks, such as diabetes, Cushing’s disease, and heart disease, among others.
How does the nervous system work?
Learning about the nervous system and the release of cortisol may guide you in making informed choices about your health. There are two main parts of the nervous system: the parasympathetic nervous system and the sympathetic nervous system.
The sympathetic nervous system usually impacts the adrenal glands, which release hormones called catecholamines. Stress-induced adrenocorticotropic hormones (ACTH) normally prompt the release of cortisol into the bloodstream when a threat is present. Cortisol can improve one’s ability to move freely and make quick decisions when stressed.
When a threat passes, the parasympathetic nervous system may come into play, regulating the body’s systems and reducing the amounts of certain hormones in the bloodstream. This process often occurs when one is safe, such as when one returns home after a stressful day and is able to take a warm bath and drink a calming tea.
However, this part of the stress response doesn’t occur for some people, leading to long-term cortisol release, also called cortisol dysregulation. When someone struggles to maintain healthy cortisol levels, they may be experiencing this phenomenon.
The parts of the stress regulation process
Several stress regulation processes can occur in the nervous system, including the following.
Cortisol release
Cortisol is produced in the hypothalamus, which releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), causing the pituitary gland to release ACTH. Cortisol is then released from the adrenal glands, which also release adrenaline, another hormone often associated with stress.
This process takes place in the endocrine and nervous system and impacts almost every system in the body. When levels of cortisol are higher than normal or remain in the body long-term, a person may be experiencing ongoing increased cortisol secretion, also known as dysregulation of the cortisol receptors or dysregulated cortisol secretion.
The “fight-flight-freeze” response
The “fight-flight-freeze” response can describe the way stress hormones like cortisol impact the nervous system and body. People often react to stress in three ways. Some might fight against the stressor, such as in the case of an animal attack. Some people may flee from stress, and those who cannot escape or struggle to do so may freeze in the face of a stressor. Cortisol and adrenaline often aid in the flight and fight responses, preparing people to move more efficiently.
The parasympathetic nervous system response
In general, the parasympathetic nervous system starts to reduce the impact of stress on the body once a stressor has disappeared. However, in some cases, this process doesn’t occur, causing the nervous system and other systems in the body to remain alert. Prolonged alertness may occur when a person is unable to escape a stressor or when they have been exposed to significant traumatic stress.
Causes of cortisol dysregulation
Various situations and conditions can cause cortisol dysregulation, including (but not necessarily limited to) those discussed below.
Cushing’s disease
Cushing’s disease is a medical condition that can be caused by long-term cortisol production in the body unrelated to whether one is experiencing stress. Because cortisol usually helps individuals maintain their blood pressure, regulate blood sugar, and reduce inflammation, people with Cushing’s disease often experience the following symptoms:
- High blood pressure
- High or low blood sugar
- Inflammation
- Weight gain
- Stretch marks
- Memory loss
- An increased risk of blood clots
- Roundness in the face
- Increased fat near the neck and belly
- Thin arms and legs
- Easy bruising
- Weakness in the muscles
Symptoms of this condition can look different in different people. If you believe you might be experiencing Cushing’s disease, speak to your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Trauma
Prolonged trauma tends to be one of the most common causes of repeated cortisol secretion over extended periods. Because trauma usually causes stress, being exposed to constant stress that one cannot easily escape, such as in an abusive relationship or when being raised by a neglectful parent, can cause cortisol to continue to be released in an attempt to protect the body from harm. However, this continued release of cortisol can lead to poor mental and physical health.
Mental health conditions
Mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and acute stress disorder can contribute to the frequent release of cortisol and other stress hormones. Because these conditions are typically caused by traumatic stress, their symptoms are often prolonged and repetitive. For some, therapy or medical treatments like medication may reduce the impacts of the traumatic memory on the body and mind.
What is chronic stress?
Chronic stress can also lead to physical symptoms like muscle pain, insomnia, and headaches. This type of stress may also leave people more vulnerable to illness and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. You may be experiencing chronic stress if you frequently experience emotional challenges in response to a stressor in your life, such as a demanding career, unhealthy marriage, or difficult friendship. Traumatic experiences, such as experiencing abuse or living with a toxic parent, can also contribute to chronic stress.
How to manage and balance cortisol
Cortisol can often be managed with self-care practices aimed at regulating the parasympathetic nervous system, such as the following:
- Mindfulness: Mindfulness exercises may improve your concentration abilities, which can be impacted by cortisol. Studies show meditation can increase the size of the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for learning, memory, and cognition.
- Time in nature:Spending time in nature can improve mental health and promote relaxation.
- Exercise:Exercise can reduce the amount of cortisol released in the bloodstream and may improve symptoms of related conditions like depression and anxiety.
- Limit stressors: Try to limit stressors in your life that you can control. For example, you might limit contact with people who tend to lead to increased stress. Consider avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and other substances as well.
In some cases, cortisol dysregulation may be treated with medical support. Some doctors might prescribe corticosteroids to patients who struggle to regulate this hormone. However, this treatment may not be appropriate for everyone. Always speak to your doctor regarding medical questions and medication.
Therapy for stress regulation
Therapy is another option for reducing stress. However, not everyone may easily access in-person therapy. Barriers to therapy, like location, finances, or a lack of options, can make it challenging to seek support.
In these cases, individuals might consider online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp. Clients can choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions, giving them control over how they receive support. In addition, they may find extra resources like worksheets, group sessions, journaling prompts, and goal-setting options to support them throughout their therapeutic journey.
Studies generally support the effectiveness of internet therapy options. One study found that online therapy could significantly reduce chronic stress. In a 2018 study, those who participated in internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) experienced a significant reduction in symptoms compared to the control group, and online treatment appeared to be just as effective as in-person treatment.
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