Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2025
05:48
The Adventures of Fundi Intervention Based on the Cognitive and Emotional Processing in Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder Patients
Published on: June 12, 2020
5.7K
An Integrative Approach to HPA Axis Dysfunction: From Recognition to Recovery
1Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern University, Chicago, Ill; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill.
The American Journal of Medicine
|June 11, 2025
Summary
This review covers the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, crucial for stress response and chronic conditions. It details HPA axis dysregulation causes, diagnostics, and integrative treatments for improved patient care.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
- Stress Physiology
Background:
- The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is central to the body's stress response.
- HPA axis dysregulation is linked to numerous chronic health conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence-based perspectives on HPA axis dysregulation.
- To explore its pathophysiology, diagnostics, and integrative therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific evidence.
- Analysis of contributing factors to HPA axis dysfunction.
- Overview of diagnostic methods and therapeutic approaches.
Main Results:
- Identified key factors: psychological stress, genetics, diet, gut health, immune interactions, inflammation, toxins, and hormones.
- Outlined diagnostic tests including serum and salivary cortisol.
- Detailed integrative therapies: patient-provider relationship, stress reduction, lifestyle, diet, supplements, and adaptogens.
Conclusions:
- An integrative approach to HPA axis dysfunction supports individualized care.
- This model bridges conventional endocrinology and functional medicine.
- Empowers providers to address symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, and mood instability.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:37Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis
59.7K
The response to stress—be it physical or psychological, acute or chronic—involves activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is part of the neuroendocrine system because it involves both neuronal and hormonal communication. Its function is to regulate homeostatic systems—metabolic, cardiovascular, and immune—providing the necessary means to respond to a stressor.
59.7K
01:24Humanistic Therapy
37
Humanistic therapies emphasize personal growth, self-understanding, and the fulfillment of human potential. Rooted in the belief that individuals inherently strive toward self-actualization, these approaches encourage clients to explore their feelings and experiences in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment. Humanistic therapies differ from psychodynamic approaches by focusing on conscious experiences, present circumstances, and the potential for self-improvement rather than past conflicts...
37
01:29Psychodynamic Therapy
56
Psychodynamic therapies emphasize the exploration of unconscious processes and early childhood experiences as fundamental contributors to psychological difficulties. These therapies, deeply rooted in Freud's psychoanalytic theory, aim to uncover and resolve unconscious conflicts, granting individuals insights that promote emotional and behavioral healing. Contemporary psychodynamic approaches have evolved, integrating a broader range of influences and methodologies while still valuing the...
56
01:29Theoretical Approaches to Psychological Disorder
131
The development of psychological disorders, which are characterized by deviant, maladaptive, and personally distressing behaviors, has been explored through several theoretical approaches.
Biological approach
The biological approach posits that internal, organic factors are the primary causes of such disorders. This perspective emphasizes brain structure and function, genetic predispositions, and neurotransmitter imbalances. For example, schizophrenia has been associated with both genetic...
Biological approach
The biological approach posits that internal, organic factors are the primary causes of such disorders. This perspective emphasizes brain structure and function, genetic predispositions, and neurotransmitter imbalances. For example, schizophrenia has been associated with both genetic...
131
01:24Physiological Foundation of Stress
50
Stress triggers a coordinated physiological response involving the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This dual activation ensures that the body is prepared for both immediate and prolonged stress management. The process begins with the perception of a stressor. This initial phase activates the SNS, leading to the rapid release of adrenaline (epinephrine) from the adrenal glands.
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
50
01:27Horney's Sociocultural Approach
474
Karen Horney's psychoanalytic theories emphasize the potential for self-realization and the importance of addressing social and cultural, rather than biological, factors in personality development. She challenged traditional Freudian views, particularly Freud's concept of "penis envy," which she argued stemmed from cultural influences rather than inherent biological differences. Horney believed that any sense of inferiority in women was a result of societal conditioning, such as...
474