Neuroendocrine Response to Acute Psychosocial Stress and Its Modulation by Social Support Among Teachers in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria

Background: Psychosocial stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and sympathoadrenal system, producing measurable hormonal and cardiovascular responses. Social support is a well-documented buffer of the neuroendocrine stress response, yet the interaction between occupational stress, social support, and physiological stress reactivity has not been examined empirically among Nigerian teachers. Objectives: This study aims to measure salivary cortisol, alpha-amylase, and cardiovascular reactivity as neuroendocrine stress indices following a standardised laboratory psychosocial stress task (Trier Social Stress Test) among secondary school teachers in Kebbi State, and to examine the moderating role of perceived social support on stress-induced responses. Methods: Sixty teachers will complete the Trier Social Stress Test protocol. Saliva samples will be collected at five time points across the protocol. Blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored continuously. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support will classify social support levels. Mixed-effects ANOVA with interaction terms will test moderation by social support. Expected Outcomes: Teachers with low perceived social support are anticipated to demonstrate heightened cortisol and alpha-amylase reactivity and slower recovery following the stress task, consistent with neuroendocrine sensitisation. Conclusion: Findings will advocate for structured psychosocial support programmes in Nigerian schools to buffer teacher stress physiology. Keywords: neuroendocrine stress, cortisol, social support, psychosocial stress, Kebbi teachers.