Final answer:
Chronic stress affects the brain through hormones like epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol, which are released during a long-term stress response, inhibiting the immune system and thereby increasing disease risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chronic stress attacks synapses in the brain primarily with the help of hormones such as epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol. This process is fundamentally different from short-term stress responses, wherein the body can handle quick bursts of stress hormones. During long-term or chronic stress, the hypothalamus triggers the release of ACTH, which in turn stimulates the adrenal cortex to release corticosteroids. These include glucocorticoids like cortisol, which influence glucose metabolism and have immune-suppressing effects. Cortisol and other stress hormones play a critical role in affecting the immune system, which, when inhibited, can lead to an increased risk of diseases.