Children exposed to chronic stress—leading to excess levels of the stress hormones epinephrine (adrenaline), norepinephrine, and cortisol—may experience stunted growth, a condition known as psychosocial short stature. Stress hormones inhibit key bodily functions like digestion and cell repair (in order to direct energy to the fight-or-flight response), as well as the production of growth hormone. Over time, this can lead to reduced bone density, muscle mass, and height. Evidence does suggest, however, that children who leave abusive or stressful environments are able to “catch up” and regain much of their lost height.