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People tend to react emotionally and continue experiencing stress, sometimes for another 90 seconds, or even for another 90 minutes. In some cases, this pattern persists over entire lifetimes. When the stress response becomes chronic, the body remains in a heightened state of alertness and tension, which can have deleterious effects on physical and mental health.
The Risks of Prolonged Cortisol Elevation
Prolonged exposure to elevated cortisol levels can lead to several health issues:
Immunosuppression: Reduced ability to fight off infections.
Cognitive impairment: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating.
Mental health problems: Increased risk of anxiety and depression.