Selye’s General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

Selye’s General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

Three stages of stress proposed by Hans Selye

3 Stages of Stress (GAS)

1. Alarm

2. Resistance

3. Exhaustion

GAS Stage 1: Alarm

First exposure to stressor and ability to cope goes down

How does the HPA Axis release energy to help with stress?

1. The hypothalamus activates the pituitary gland to release ACTH hormone.

2. ACTH hormone interacts with the adrenal cortex to release cortisol

Cortisol

Helps the body respond to stress or danger

How is the Flight-or-Flight Response activated?

Activation of autonomic nervous system releasing adrenaline in response to stress

Adrenaline

A hormone your adrenal glands make to help you prepare for stressful or dangerous situations

Symptoms of Adrenaline

Increased respiration, muscle strength, and mental activity

GAS Stage 2: Resistance

Normal level of resistance to stress, coping strategies employed

i.e. Breathing, visualization, and thinking logically.

GAS Stage 3: Exhaustion

Prolonged stress leads to an inability to cope with stress which can cause physical or psychological damage