The threat is psychological instead of physical
The threat (the possibility of the circumstance occurring) is prolonged
When distress (the actual circumstance) is prolonged
Stress Stages
Alarm stage:
Short term physiological mobilization. Adrenaline and cortisol increase, blood flows away from brain to muscles, dendrites shrink back in the brain as a way of moderating the flow of information, slowing or shutting down of nonessential body functions (e.g. gastrointestinal and sexual systems) takes place.
Resistance stage:
Adaptive efforts by the body to cope with or resolve stressor. Return to normal.
Exhaustion stage:
Initial stage - If stress persists - reserves of energy are used. Body continues in Alarm stage mode. Fatigue results. Self-medication and self-comforting coping skills are utilized. There is increased anxiety. Decreased ability to concentrate and stay on task. Greater susceptibility to minor illnesses.
Advance stage - Energy reserves are depleted. Body systems begin to malfunction and there is a much greater susceptibility to serious illnesses. Increased use of self-medication and maladaptive self-comforting methods. Normal process in which the stomach lining constantly replenishes itself to counteract digestive fluids is put on hold. Eating for comfort during this time can cause damage to the stomach. Typical appetite and eating patterns are disturbed. Increased irritability, poor judgment and personality changes. Physical and emotional problems.
The body's response to stress is generally healthy and adaptive. It functions to help an individual respond and get through unusual circumstances. This system becomes maladaptive when:
|
The threat is psychological instead of physical |
|
The threat (the possibility of the circumstance occurring) is prolonged |
|
When distress (the actual circumstance) is prolonged |