What are the three stages of stress?

The three stages of stress, known as the General Adaptation Syndrome, include Alarm, Resistance, and Exhaustion.

In the Alarm stage, the body recognizes a stressor and prepares to respond, triggering a fight-or-flight response where hormones like adrenaline are released, increasing heart rate and energy levels. This stage is crucial as it signifies the initial reaction to stress and the beginning of the stress response.

The Resistance stage follows, where the body attempts to adapt to the stressor. If the stressor persists, the body continues to be on high alert but begins to find ways to cope and manage the situation. During this phase, individuals may experience heightened focus and resilience, but it also comes with the risk of strain if the stress continues for too long.

Finally, during the Exhaustion stage, prolonged stress overwhelms the body's ability to cope. This can lead to reduced immunity, fatigue, and a higher susceptibility to physical and mental health issues. It is a critical stage indicating that the body has depleted its resources available to deal with stress.

Understanding these stages can help individuals identify how they might respond to stressors and emphasizes the importance of stress management techniques to avoid reaching the Exhaustion stage.