Physiological Reactions to Stress

The Reaction

When a danger is recognised the body is given an extra boost to get us out of danger, this is the "Fight or Flight" response. A chemical message of ALERT is sent to the brain which initiates a dramatic change in the hypothalamus. This is the control centre which integrates our reflex reactions and coordinates the different activities in our bodies, our heart, muscles, brain and lungs are given priority over the other organs in our bodies.

The Recovery

Once the danger has gone the parasympathetic nervous system takes over again and our bodies return to the state of equilibrium, where all our functions are once more in balance. This may take some time.

Our personality / behavior is a major factor in whether we can cope with stress or not. 

If we do not reduce our Stress Levels  then we are in danger of continuous Secondary stress responses, when our bodies continually trigger the stress reaction, these usually occur in situations which we cannot control.

Secondary Stress Responses

The secondary stress response occurs when the stress levels are not reduced, the fight or flight is not enough and so our bodies release more powerful hormones, the Cortico-steroids.

The effect is cumulative and if the stress is not reduced will result in our becoming exhausted. All these factors will affect our relationships, we will find it harder to face reality, easier to become addicted to alcohol or worse, which in turn will lead to more chance of disease. Serious mental disorders can be seen to emanate from some apparently trivial situations.