The long-term effects of stress are determined by the pattern of stress activation. When the stress-response systems are activated in unpredictable or extreme or prolonged ways, the systems becomes overactive and overly reactive—in other words, sensitized. Over time, this can lead to functional vulnerability, and since the stress-response systems collectively reach all parts of the brain and body, a cascade of risk in emotional, social, mental, and physical health occurs. In contrast, predictable, moderate, and controllable activation of the stress-response systems, such as that seen with
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