THE ROLE OF CORTISOL IN TIMES OF STRESS
Cortisol is a hormone produced in the adrenal cortex that is released during times of stress. Variations in cortisol secretion can indicate how well the body is coping with stress. Cortisol homeostasis is typically characterized by peak secretion during the early morning hours with a gradual decline throughout the day. Because of its central role as a key stress hormone, cortisol is often thought of as a bridge between stress and its health impact.