Final answer:
Chronic stress can cause the body to become exhausted due to the release of cortisol, affecting bodily processes and weakening the immune system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stress can cause the body to become exhausted due to the release of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. Cortisol weakens the immune system and can lead to symptoms such as depression, fatigue, and even heart attacks. It mobilizes lipid and protein reserves, stimulates the conservation of glucose, and affects bodily processes to meet long-term energy requirements. Overall, chronic stress can have harmful effects on the body.