08/21/2025
Hormonal Imbalance: The Stress Effect
We all get stressed out sometimes. Maybe we’re facing a tight deadline at work, or our car broke down on the highway.
Whenever we feel stressed, our brain’s hypothalamus signals our adrenal glands to release and increase levels of stress hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline (or epinephrine).
This triggers a “fight or flight” response, which is our body’s way of alarming us that there’s an immediate threat we need to address. After the threat is gone, our cortisol and adrenaline levels go back to normal.
But prolonged periods of stress can cause cortisol and adrenaline to remain elevated. This can result in a hormonal imbalance and have a profound effect on our health, particularly for women.
Chronic stress can be due to an extended event, such as a divorce, the severe illness of a loved one, or simply being so busy your body never has a chance to relax.
According to a 2019 survey by the American Psychological Association, nearly half of U.S. women aged 30 to 60 have experienced the symptoms of a hormonal imbalance.
However, 72% of the study’s participants had no idea their symptoms were related to hormones.
General Hormonal Imbalance Symptoms
Depending on which hormones are out of balance, women may experience any of the following symptoms:
• Fatigue
• Mood changes
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Anxiety or depression
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Hair loss or thinning
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Skin tags
• Vaginal dryness
• Sleep disturbances
• Decreased libido
Getting Back into Balance
If you’re struggling with stress-induced hormonal issues, there are changes you can make on your own to try and to alleviate stress, lower cortisol levels, and get your hormones back in balance.
• Practice deep breathing techniques
• Get frequent exercise
• Practice spending time with God and reading his words.
• Spend time with friends
• Eliminate caffeine and sugar intake
• Find ways to laugh more
• Learn to say no and avoid overextending yourself
• Get regular massages
• Talk to a therapist or counselor
If you’ve been experiencing any symptoms of a hormonal imbalance and have been dealing with prolonged periods of stress, you should see a doctor to determine whether testing is needed. Your doctor can also help you find ways to reduce stress in your daily life.
