CPL » Human Factors » Stress Management
34.38.2 Describe a simple model of stress.
A simple model of stress describes the body's response to a continuing stressor in three stages:
Alarm → Resistance → Exhaustion
1. Alarm Stage
The alarm stage is the body's immediate response to stress.
Stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol are released, preparing the body for the fight or flight response.
Typical effects include:
increased heart rate;
faster breathing;
increased blood pressure;
increased alertness; and
increased muscle tension.
If the stress continues, the body enters the resistance stage.
2. Resistance Stage
During the resistance stage, the body attempts to adapt to and cope with the continuing stress.
The person may continue to function effectively, but this requires physical and mental energy.
If the stress continues for too long, the body's ability to cope may gradually reduce.