Studying the physiology of stress is significant because it helps us understand how stress impacts both physical and mental health. Chronic stress can lead to various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, immune dysfunction, and mental disorders like anxiety and depression. The body's response to stress involves the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates hormone release, such as cortisol. Understanding stress physiology can inform interventions that promote better mental health, resilience, and overall well-being in individuals.