The fight or flight response

What part of the brain is activated when someone enters a potentially stressful situation

The amygdala (part of the limbic system)

What is the role of amygdala in the fight or flight response

It processes sensory input and connects it with emotions such as fear and anger

What happens if the amygdala perceives a situation as stressful or dangerous

It sends a distress signal to the hypothalamus

How does the hypothalamus communicate with the body in a stressful situation

Through the sympathetic nervous system

Which pathway is activated for a short term response to stress

The sympathomedullary pathway (SAM pathway)

What is the main function of the fight or flight response

To prepare the body for immediate action by increasing heart rate, breathing rate and blood pressure

What system is activated after the fight or flight response to return the body to a resting state

The parasympathetic nervous system

How does the parasympathetic nervous system restore balance after a stressful event

By slowing heart rate, reducing blood pressure, and restarting slowed functions like digestion