The distinguished endocrinologist, Dr. George P. Chrousos, offers us a groundbreaking analysis of stress, examining in depth its effects on the human mind and body. Drawing from decades of research, he presents the scientific data behind the stress response in an accessible way, explaining how it affects our health and its role in chronic diseases such as anxiety, depression, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and autoimmune diseases.

The texts of the book serve as an extensive guide to understanding the biological mechanisms of stress, explaining how they are activated, how the mind and body respond, and why prolonged exposure to it can be so detrimental. From the hormones that fuel the fight-or-flight response to the long-term consequences of uncontrolled stress, the book reveals the ways in which our lives are affected, for better or for worse.