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The fight-or-flight response is a physiological reaction to threats, involving the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and key hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. This survival mechanism, described by Walter B. Cannon, optimizes the body's performance in critical situations through increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and muscle tension. Chronic stress, however, can lead to health issues, highlighting the importance of the parasympathetic nervous system in recovery and stress management.
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The fight-or-flight response is an instinctive physiological reaction to a perceived threat
Survival mechanism
The fight-or-flight response is a fundamental survival mechanism that originates from our evolutionary past
Quick reactions to threats
Quick reactions to threats, such as predators, were essential for survival in our evolutionary past
Stressors have evolved to include non-life-threatening situations, yet the body's response remains similar
The fight-or-flight response manifests through various symptoms, including increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and muscle tension, all designed to optimize the body's performance in critical situations
Components of the ANS
The ANS is comprised of two main components: the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems
Functions of the ANS
The ANS manages involuntary physiological functions and plays a pivotal role in the body's stress response
The fight-or-flight response is initiated by the amygdala, an area of the brain that processes emotions, including fear
Release of adrenaline
The amygdala signals the hypothalamus, leading to the release of adrenaline, a hormone that stimulates the body for immediate action
Effects of adrenaline
Adrenaline energizes the body, increases heart rate and blood pressure, and redirects blood flow to essential organs and muscles
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis responds to stress by releasing cortisol, a hormone that increases blood sugar and modulates various body functions
The fight-or-flight response is beneficial for acute stress situations, enabling an immediate reaction to potential danger
Health issues
Chronic stress can lead to a range of health issues, including migraines, hypertension, and a compromised immune system
Impact on mental health
Chronic stress can negatively impact mental health, contributing to conditions like anxiety, depression, and concentration difficulties
Effective stress management is essential to mitigate potential long-term health impacts
The parasympathetic nervous system facilitates the body's return to a state of balance, counteracting the fight-or-flight response
00
Although modern stressors like ______ or ______ ______ are not life-threatening, the body reacts in a similar way as it did to ancient threats.
exams
public speaking
01
Role of ANS in stress response
Manages involuntary functions, activates sympathetic system for 'fight or flight', parasympathetic for 'rest and digest'.
02
Sympathetic nervous system activation effects
Releases stored energy, accelerates heart/breathing rates, dilates pupils, inhibits digestion for immediate action.
