Via a chain of processes, stress promotes the release of cortisol into the bloodstream, which has wide-ranging effects on the body. Perhaps more concerning, though, are its effects on the mind. It pushes us into ‘all-or-nothing’ thinking: impulsive, quick-fix behaviour intended to get us out of immediate trouble. The chain of processes starts in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in the brain. Recent research suggests that depression is also characterised by overactivity in the HPA axis. In other words, it appears that stress and depression are closely linked. Put simply, depression is just a misguided stress response that has become entrenched. Neurologically, depression and chronic stress don’t look so very different. This is hardly surprising when you think that stress creates that all-or-nothing, pass/fail mentality, and depression is characterised by feelings of persistent failure and low self-worth.