Question

Match each portion of the GAS with its definition. 1\. Alarm and mobilization 2\. Exhaustion 3\. Resistance a. Ability to adapt to stress diminishes; symptoms appear. b. Activation of sympathetic nervous system. c. Various strategies are used to cope with a stressor.

Short answer

1. Alarm and mobilization - b. Activation of sympathetic nervous system. 2. Resistance - c. Various strategies are used to cope with a stressor. 3. Exhaustion - a. Ability to adapt to stress diminishes; symptoms appear.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) phases

GAS is divided into three distinct phases: Alarm and mobilization, where the body's initial reaction to stress occurs; Resistance, where the body tries to cope with the stress; and finally Exhaustion, where the body can no longer maintain resistance to the stress.

Match 'Alarm and mobilization' with its definition

'Alarm and mobilization' refers to the body's first reaction to stress, which involves the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. So, 'Alarm and mobilization' matches with definition 'b. Activation of sympathetic nervous system.'

Match 'Resistance' with its definition

'Resistance' stage is when the body attempts to cope with the stress, using various strategies. Thus, 'Resistance' matches with definition 'c. Various strategies are used to cope with a stressor.'

Match 'Exhaustion' with its definition

The final phase, 'Exhaustion', happens when the body's ability to adapt and resist the stress decreases and symptoms start to occur. Thus, 'Exhaustion' matches with definition 'a. Ability to adapt to stress diminishes; symptoms appear.'

Key concepts

Stress Response

The stress response is your body's way of reacting to stressors in your environment. Imagine you're late for an important meeting or perhaps a dog is barking loudly at you. Your body immediately kicks into gear to help you deal with these situations.

This response involves a variety of physical and chemical changes in your body. You might notice increased heart rate, faster breathing, and a burst of energy. This is your body's way of preparing you to either "fight" the stressor or "take flight" from it. These changes are triggered by the activation of your sympathetic nervous system.

In the context of General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), the initial part of the stress response is known as the "alarm and mobilization" phase, where your body reacts with these physiological changes.

Coping Strategies

Coping strategies play a vital role in managing stress effectively. Once the initial alarm phase subsides, our focus shifts to developing mechanisms to handle stressors. Think of coping strategies as the tools we use to manage stress.

There are numerous strategies you can employ, such as:

• Problem-solving to tackle stressors directly.
• Seeking social support from friends or family.
• Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or breathing exercises.
• Engaging in physical exercise to release built-up tension.

While some strategies may work better for certain individuals and situations, the key is to find what suits you best.

Within the framework of GAS, the “resistance” phase is where these coping strategies come into play, as the body strives to maintain balance and manage stress.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is part of the larger autonomic nervous system and is crucial in the body's response to stress. It prepares your body for the "fight or flight" reaction when faced with a threat or stressor.

When activated, the SNS triggers a series of changes in the body, such as increased heart rate, dilation of the pupils, and a quick release of adrenaline. These changes equip you to either confront or escape the stressor efficiently.

In the General Adaptation Syndrome model, the role of the sympathetic nervous system is evident during the "alarm and mobilization" phase. This is when it kicks in to ensure the body is ready to face the challenge presented by the stressor.

Stress Adaptation Phases

Understanding stress adaptation phases helps us see how the body responds to continuous stress. The General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) outlines three distinct phases through which the body goes in response to prolonged stress.

First, during the **Alarm and Mobilization** phase, the body reacts to a stressor by activating the sympathetic nervous system, preparing for immediate action. Then, in the **Resistance** phase, the body attempts to adapt to the stressor, employing various coping strategies to maintain balance. Finally, if the stressor persists, the body enters the **Exhaustion** phase. Here, the body's resources are depleted, and it can no longer sustain resistance, leading to the appearance of stress-related symptoms.

Recognizing these phases can help individuals better manage stress and find appropriate strategies for adaptation to maintain overall well-being.