General adaptation syndrome is the way your body reacts naturally to stress. General adaptation syndrome occurs in 3 stages:
1. Alarm reaction stage: This refers to your body’s initial reactions to stress. In this phase, your heart rate increases, your adrenal gland releases cortisol, and you receive a boost of adrenaline to increase your energy and alertness. This may also be referred to as your body’s “fight or flight” response.
2. Resistance stage: After the first shock of a stressful event, your body will begin to repair itself and recover. The cortisol in your bloodstream decreases, and your heart rate and blood pressure level out. However, your body will still remain on high alert.
3. Exhaustion stage: This stage occurs after prolonged stress. It will leave you feeling fatigued, depressed, or anxious.
