Final answer:
Cortisol is the stress hormone that is released from the adrenal gland during stress, preparing the body for a fight-or-flight response.
Step-by-step explanation:
The so-called stress hormone typically released from the adrenal gland in response to a social-evaluative threat, such as public speaking, is cortisol. When the body experiences stress, the sympathetic nervous system responds by triggering the release of adrenaline from the adrenal glands. Concurrently, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activates the release of ACTH, which in turn prompts the adrenal glands to secrete cortisol. This hormone helps to provide a boost of energy and prepares the body to handle the stressor through the fight-or-flight response. It is crucial to note that while cortisol aids in handling stress, sustained elevated levels can harm the immune system.
In the case of acute, short-term stress, the adrenal medulla secretes epinephrine (also known as adrenaline), which primes the body for immediate physical action. However, cortisol, produced by the adrenal cortex, is the primary hormone secreted in response to long-term stress.