Question

Idris is a movie star and is under long term stress as he films on location for six weeks. According to the readings and lecture called "Stress, Illness, and Writing," what changes are MOST likely happening in his body in response to this long term stress?

a) Decreased cortisol levels
b) Enhanced immune function
c) Elevated blood pressure and heart rate
d) Improved sleep quality

Answer 1

Idris is likely experiencing elevated cortisol levels, suppression of the immune system, and elevated blood pressure and heart rate due to prolonged stress; improved sleep quality is unlikely.

Step-by-step explanation:

Under prolonged stress, as experienced by Idris the movie star who is filming on location for six weeks, his body is likely undergoing several physiological changes. Among these, the most notable are likely to be elevated cortisol levels as a result of the activation of the HPA axis, leading to a suppression of the immune system. This suppression involves both the innate and adaptive immune responses and increases vulnerability to illnesses.

Consequently, alongside immune system impairment, he might experience symptoms such as elevated blood pressure and heart rate, which are common side effects of long-term exposure to stress hormones like cortisol and adrenalin. In contrast, improved sleep quality is unlikely, given that chronic stress usually disrupts sleep patterns.