Is it true that intense and continuous stress can cause permanent physical changes in the brain?

Intense and continuous stress can indeed lead to permanent physical changes in the brain. Chronic stress has been shown to influence structures such as the hippocampus, which plays an essential role in memory and learning, and the amygdala, which is involved in the processing of emotions. Prolonged exposure to high levels of stress hormones, like cortisol, can lead to neuroplastic changes, potentially resulting in reduced brain volume and impairments in cognitive functions.

Research indicates that these changes can affect not only mental health but also overall brain function and resilience. Individuals experiencing chronic stress may encounter difficulties in emotional regulation, decision-making, and even physical health, as the body responds to prolonged stress as part of a fight-or-flight mechanism.

The other options suggest a limitation either to children or to extreme cases, which doesn’t encompass the broader impact of sustained stress across all age groups and conditions. Continuous stress is a universal concern, affecting anyone who experiences it, regardless of age or severity, thereby reinforcing the validity of the original statement regarding its capability to cause permanent changes in the brain.