What stages are included in the general adaptation syndrome (GAS)?

The general adaptation syndrome (GAS) describes the body's response to stress and consists of three distinct stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

During the first stage, the alarm reaction, the body recognizes a stressor and initiates a series of physiological responses, often referred to as the "fight or flight" response. This initial reaction prepares the body to confront or flee from the stressor, activating systems such as the endocrine system to release hormones like adrenaline.

In the second stage, resistance, the body adapts to the stressor. It attempts to restore homeostasis while still being alert to potential stressors. If the stressor persists, the body will continue to engage resources to cope, which can often lead to increased resistance to further stressors.

The final stage, exhaustion, occurs if the body has been exposed to the stressor for an extended period. At this point, the body's resources become depleted, leading to a decline in function, increased vulnerability to illness, and potential burnout.

The understanding of these stages is crucial in fields like kinesiology and health sciences, as it helps individuals recognize how prolonged stress can affect overall health and performance, thereby guiding effective stress management strategies.