What is the general adaptation syndrome?

The general adaptation syndrome (GAS) is a concept developed by Hans Selye, which describes how the body responds to stress. It consists of three stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

Initially, the alarm stage is triggered when the body perceives a stressor, activating the fight-or-flight response. This can involve increased heart rate, heightened alertness, and the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.

In the next stage, resistance, the body attempts to adapt to the ongoing stressor. During this phase, individuals may exhibit increased resilience and coping mechanisms, stabilizing their physiological response even though they are still under stress.

The final stage, exhaustion, occurs when the stress continues beyond the body's ability to cope. At this point, the body's resources become depleted, potentially leading to health issues and decreased performance.

This framework highlights the body's physiological response to stress and underscores the importance of recognizing these stages to manage stress effectively. Understanding GAS is crucial in fields such as emergency medical services, where professionals frequently encounter high-stress situations.