While I know you are talking about biochemical and structural changes within the brain, reverett, I wonder how many of us have experienced immediate, extreme stress responses? There are days I can hardly haul myself out of work with my cane (I wonder how they would take it if a government employee resorted to crawling down the marble hall to the parking garage?) anyway, 45 minutes later, laughing with friends or working in my garden, I don't even need the cane!
And yes, I've had a life and childhood with extreme stress at times.

I think you are really on to something. Thanks for sharing some of your ideas.