Feeling “tired but wired”? Or so drained you can barely function? You’re not alone. Millions of people silently struggle with chronic stress—whether it’s from work, relationships, parenting, or the pressure of just keeping up.
But what if your symptoms are more than just a sign of burnout? What if they’re part of a deeper condition known as Maladaptive Stress Syndrome (MSS)?
Let’s break it down. First, your body is designed to deal with stress in sequential stages. There’s acute stages and endurance stages and then when your body can’t endure anymore, the final stage of MSS.
What Is Maladaptive Stress Syndrome?
Maladaptive Stress Syndrome (MSS) is the body’s response to prolonged stress. Over time, your stress response system—which was designed to protect you—starts to work against you. Your adrenal glands, cortisol levels, hormones, and nervous system all get thrown out of balance.
There are 3 main phases of stress, and where you fall in this spectrum determines your recovery plan.
Stage 0: Everyday Stress Regulation
This is your body’s normal stress rhythm. You move between states of alertness and calm in a healthy, balanced way.
Symptoms of a healthy stress response:
- Clear focus during the day
- Calm ability to rest and recharge at night
- Appropriate emotional reactions
- Energy that rises and falls naturally
Stage 1: Acute Stress Response (MSS-1)
This is the “fight or flight” phase, where your body reacts to a short-term stressor—like almost getting in a car accident or facing a deadline.
Signs of Stage 1 Stress:
- Sudden energy spikes
- Heightened senses or anxiety
- Temporary insomnia
- Muscle tension
- Exhaustion after the adrenaline wears off
You can usually bounce back from Stage 1 with rest and time. But if stressors keep piling up? You enter Stage 2.
Stage 2: Suppression Phase (MSS-2)
This is chronic stress—the kind that creeps in and stays. Your body stays on high alert for weeks, months, or even years. Cortisol levels remain elevated, and your adrenal glands become overworked.
Symptoms of Stage 2 Stress:
- Fatigue, even after sleeping
- Frequent illness or lowered immunity
- Anxiety or depression
- Insomnia or disrupted sleep
- Sugar cravings and weight gain
- High cholesterol or blood sugar
- Hormonal imbalances (like increased facial hair in women)
This stage often leads to long-term health issues like insulin resistance, autoimmune conditions, and chronic inflammation.
Stage 3: Exhaustion Phase (MSS-3)
Also known as adrenal burnout or adrenal exhaustion, this phase is the result of years (even decades) of unmanaged stress. Your body is depleted—physically, emotionally, and nutritionally.
Symptoms of MSS-3:
- Extreme fatigue or brain fog
- No motivation or “drive”
- Digestive issues
- Low libido
- Chronic aches and pains
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or stress
At this stage, your body can no longer produce enough cortisol or neurotransmitters to keep going. You need deep rest and replenishment.
How to Recover from Chronic Stress Naturally
You can heal from chronic stress—and the earlier you start, the better your outcome.
Here’s where to begin:
- Prioritize nutrient-dense food: Choose anti-inflammatory meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and colorful veggies.
- Move your body—gently: Start with walks, yoga, or stretching. Intense exercise can be too much in later stress stages.
- Avoid stimulants like caffeine and sugar: They mask your symptoms and stress your system even more.
- Lean on support: Stress recovery isn’t a solo journey. Work with a holistic care team that understands MSS.
- Try acupuncture & Chinese herbs: These help regulate your nervous system, support your adrenal glands, and bring balance back.
- Test your stress levels: At Glow, Dr. Rachel offers stress testing and personalized protocols including herbs, supplements, and lifestyle support.
Let Us Help You Heal from Stress
You don’t have to stay stuck in survival mode. Whether you’re in the early phases of stress or facing burnout, we’re here to walk with you toward balance, energy, and emotional well-being.
