This scientific infographic visualizes how stress affects the brain and body through the hormone cortisol, and how resilience and recovery mechanisms restore balance. A glowing brain highlights the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus, showing how chronic stress alters emotional regulation, memory, and decision‑making. Insets depict real‑world applications: mindfulness for recovery, exercise for resilience, and breathing techniques for cortisol control