Final answer:
Cortisol is a hormone released in response to stress which can have beneficial effects in the short term but detrimental effects in long-term stress situations, potentially leading to Cushing's disease and other health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stress-related production of cortisol is linked with a variety of physiological reactions that help the body to cope temporarily but may also lead to negative health outcomes when the stress is prolonged. Cortisol, a glucocorticoid hormone, is released by the adrenal cortex in response to long-term stress. Short-term production of cortisol has beneficial effects such as providing extra energy and temporarily improving immune function. However, chronic exposure to high levels of cortisol due to prolonged stress can lead to a weakening of the immune system, increased risk of depression, and other health issues such as hypertension and diabetes.
Hypersecretion of cortisol can cause Cushing's disease, a disorder with symptoms including obesity, high blood pressure, and depression. Conversely, conditions like Addison's disease are characterized by insufficient cortisol production. Understanding the delicate balance of cortisol in the body is crucial for both physical and mental health.