Exploring the Link Between Chronic Stress and Substance Abuse Among Public Health Workers: Neuroendocrine Pathways

Aim: This review examines how early life stress, particu- larly during the prenatal and perinatal periods, impacts the neu- roendocrine and immune systems, increasing the risk of sub- stance use disorders (SUDs) across generations. Methods: A synthesis of animal and human studies was conducted, focusing on the effects of maternal stress, glucocor- ticoid administration, and prenatal drug exposure on offspring. The role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and immune system was also explored. Results: Evidence suggests that maternal stress and drug exposure during pregnancy can biologically embed risks for SUDs through alterations in HPA axis function and immune re- sponses. Increased cortisol levels and gene expression changes in offspring are observed, linking prenatal stress to heightened susceptibility to addiction. Animal studies consistently show a pattern of increased drug sensitivity and preference in those ex- posed to prenatal stressors. Conclusion: Understanding the biological mechanisms by which early stressors contribute to addiction vulnerability is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. Future research should further explore the interplay between various stressors and their cumulative effects on neu- robiological pathways related to substance abuse..