Fight or Flight Flashcards
(7 cards)
What is the fight or flight response?
Evolutionary survival mechanism in response to a threat
Primes our body and mind for extreme action
Returns to homeostasis after threat has passed
What is the fight or flight response not designed for?
The modern world
Maladaptive
Not any predators to have to run away from
What is acute stress?
Common form of stress
Response to immediate pressures
Can be exciting in small amounts - give focus and energy
Exhausting if maintained
What is chronic stress?
Long term form of stress
Response to prolonged emotional pressure
Often in situations where individual feels unable to control
How does the fight or flight work?
Stressor is recogised
Activates the branch of the autonomic nervous system - sympathetic
Adrenaline and neuroadrenaline to be released from adrenal medulla
Triggers endocrine system via pituitary gland
Hypothalamus activates pituitary gland
Realising ACTH - resulting in secretion of hormone cortisol in adrenal cortex
What do adrenaline and noradrenaline do?
Increases blood flow to the brain and skeletal muscles.
Quick thinking and reactions
Decrease blood flow to systems not time critical
Dilated pupils
Faster breathing rate
Sweat production
Increased anxiety
What are stress related illnesses?
Long term effects on physical and mental health
Shuts down immune systems, digestives systems causes high blood pressure and results in anxiety
Increased risk of heart disease
Can result in depression
