Stress, cortisol and depression

Author/s
Helen Patricia Gaete, Rashid Zaman
Citation
Issue 5 Winter 2018
CEPiP.2018.1.32-36
Abstract

Evidence suggests that chronic stress affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of depression. In this short article we describe the link between chronic stress, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis abnormalities, sleep disturbance, metabolic abnormalities and depression. We also discuss how hair cortisol measurements can be used as a biomarker of chronic stress. We also suggest that hair cortisol measurements can also be used to monitor improvement as a result of treatments such as antidepressants and mindfulness.

Cite as: Cutting Edge Psychiatry in Practice 2018, 5(1):32-36; https://doi.org/10.65031/exyv1795

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