Adrenal fatigue proponents say the problem arises when the body's ability to cope with a variety of life pressures becomes too great. The adrenal glands, which are small structures placed above the kidneys, normally respond to stress by generating cortisol and other stress hormones. When people are exposed to long-term strain, their adrenal glands are unable to stay current with the body's need for these hormones, as per the concept of adrenal fatigue. Advocates of "adrenal fatigue" claim that symptoms will arise when this happens.