adredaline and the fight or flight response

stress response

humans and animals have developed mechanisms to deal effectively with potential threats/stressors in their environments. the response prepared us to either confront or run away from a threat (flight or fight). generated from the autonomic nervous system, sympathetic branch. a reflex that is designed to help an individual react quicker than normal circumstances

1. short term stressor (fight or flight)

2. chronic stressor (long term)

appraisal of the stressor

a situation is perceived as stressful —> hypothalamus alerted —>

1. SAM system activated: immediate response to acute stressor eg. flight or fight

2. pituitary adrenal system activated: response to chronic stressor

SAM pathway

1. The body appraises the situation using its sensory systems and stored memories. Hippocampus and amygdala try to recognise emotional reactions to stimuli and access stored memories for potential danger

2. is it is stressful, hypothalamus is alerted. It recognises the stress is short time (acute)

3. SAM pathway is activated, aka. Sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system directly to the adrenal medulla

4. stimulates the adrenal glands specifically the adrenal meddula situated just above the kidneys

5. Adrenal meddula secretes the hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline

6. Once in the bloodstream they prepare body for fight or flight

Adrenaline effects (6)

1. Perspiration (sweat), helps body cool down through evaporation

2. Respiration increases, need more oxygen to flight or fight

3. Blood flow to muscles for muscular tension, to efficiently circulate oxygen and nutrients

4. Pupil dilation, take in more light to see surroundings better

5. HR and BP, to efficiently circulate oxygen and nutrients

6. Reduced digestion, resources needed elsewhere

Counter shock and adrenaline

Parasympathetic branch will restore body after fight or flight

Adrenaline increases respiration