Cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone, plays a critical role in the body’s response to stress. While essential for managing acute stress, chronic stress can lead to cortisol imbalances, which may contribute to harmful behaviors such as self-harm and addiction. Elevated cortisol levels have been linked to increased emotional distress, anxiety, and impulsivity, driving individuals to seek relief through maladaptive coping mechanisms. Similarly, addiction often involves a dysregulated cortisol response, with substances used to temporarily lower stress but ultimately perpetuating the cycle of addiction. Understanding how cortisol impacts emotional regulation is key to addressing these behaviors and fostering long-term mental health.