Final answer:
Chronic stress suppresses both innate and adaptive immune responses, increasing the risk of various diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The effect of chronic stress on the immune response is primarily suppressive. While short-term stress can enhance certain aspects of the innate immune system, chronic stress leads to the suppression of both innate and adaptive immune responses. This suppression can increase susceptibility to various diseases and is a significant concern in conditions such as caregiving for a loved one with a long-term illness or dealing with long-term unemployment. Studies in psychoneuroimmunology have shown that chronic stress can have a profound effect on the intricate interplay between the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.