Physiology
Cortisol
A steroid hormone released during stress that mobilizes energy reserves and suppresses non-essential functions. The body's primary long-term stress hormone.
Biological Context
Cortisol releases glucose from storage, suppresses immune function, and affects memory formation. Unlike adrenaline (acute), cortisol handles sustained stress. Chronically elevated cortisol causes muscle wasting, immune suppression, and cognitive impairment. Cortisol also follows a daily rhythm, peaking in morning.
Business Application
Organizational cortisol: the chronic stress signals—persistent uncertainty, ongoing cost-cutting, sustained crisis mode. High organizational cortisol degrades long-term capabilities while providing short-term energy.