What is one mechanism by which stress could result in physical damage to the brain?
a) Prolonged stress can result in chronic elevation of cortisol levels. This, in turn, can lead to death of hippocampus cells due to overstimulation.
b) Prolonged stress leads to the release of prostaglandins. These cross the blood-brain barrier and enter the brain where they cause death of hippocampus cells.
c) Prolonged stress can result in a long-lasting immune system response which can lead to an autoimmune condition where neurons, particularly in the hippocampus, are killed.