Heart disease and depression may both result when chronic stress triggers which of the following physiological responses?

• A. Decreased levels of cortisol
• B. Enhanced release of endorphins
• C. Suppression of the immune system
• D. Increased production of white blood cells

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of chronic stress in physiological responses by reviewing how stress affects the body's systems, particularly the immune system.
2. Recall that chronic stress typically leads to increased cortisol levels, which can suppress immune function rather than decrease cortisol.
3. Recognize that enhanced release of endorphins is generally associated with pain relief and positive mood, not a typical chronic stress response linked to heart disease or depression.
4. Focus on how suppression of the immune system due to prolonged stress can contribute to both heart disease and depression by impairing the body's ability to fight illness and regulate inflammation.
5. Conclude that among the options, suppression of the immune system is the physiological response most commonly triggered by chronic stress that relates to both heart disease and depression.