Question

‘Your body is made to react to stress in ways meant to protect you against threats. For example, you may take on a huge workload, pay bills or take care of your family. Because of this, you may always feel under stress. The long term activation of the stress response system and too much exposure to stress situations can disrupt hormonal balance. This may put you at higher risk of health problems.’ (Source (edited): www.mayoclinic.org)

With reference to the excerpt given above, briefly explain any four physiological changes that take place in the Resistance stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome Model.

Answer 1

Hans Selye’s General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) model identifies the Resistance stage as the second step of the body’s response to sustained stress. At this stage, the body maintains a high level of readiness to adjust to the continuous challenge. Four physiological changes occur during the Resistance stage:

1. Sustained Release of Stress Hormones: The adrenal glands continuously release cortisol and adrenaline to maintain alertness, regulate blood pressure, and boost energy available.
2. Elevated Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: During stress, the body maintains a greater heart rate and blood pressure to provide sufficient oxygen and nutrients to muscles and organs.
3. Increased Blood Sugar Levels: High glucose production fuels brain and muscle function. This maintains the body’s optimal performance.
4. Suppression of Non-Essential Systems: In order to save energy for handling the stressor, physiological systems such as immunological, digestive, and reproductive systems that are not immediately required for survival are suppressed.