Prefrontal Cortex Overload: The part of the brain responsible for executive functions (concentration, decision-making, working memory) gets overwhelmed and fatigued, leading to the symptoms you listed. Adrenal Fatigue/Dysregulation: Long-term exposure to stress hormones like cortisol disrupts the brain's chemistry and ability to regulate mood and energy. Reduced Neuroplasticity: The brain is too busy "surviving" to engage in the restful, restorative, and learning processe