Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is like your body's super hero team! It's a group of organs and hormones that work together to help your body respond to stress. It starts in your brain – the hypothalamus sends out a signal to your pituitary gland saying it's time to fight or flight. Then your pituitary gland tells your adrenal glands to make a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol helps your body get ready for whatever you need to do in a stressful situation – like running away from danger or getting energy to keep going. Having the right amount of cortisol helps your body respond quickly and efficiently in times of stress.