Which stage of the general adaptation syndrome involves the initial mobilization of resources to cope with a stressor?

Which stage of the general adaptation syndrome involves the initial mobilization of resources to cope with a stressor?

• A. Alarm stage
• B. Resistance stage
• C. Exhaustion
• D. Recovery stage

Answer: (A)

When a stressor is perceived, the body immediately mobilizes its resources for quick action. This immediate mobilization is the Alarm stage of the general adaptation syndrome. It involves the sympathetic nervous system and the HPA axis releasing adrenaline and cortisol, which fast-tracks physiological readiness: heart rate and respiration rise, blood pressure increases, glucose is released for quick energy, and senses sharpen. All of this happens to prepare the body to confront or escape the threat. If stress persists, the body shifts into the resistance stage to cope over time, and with prolonged stress it can move toward exhaustion. The option labeled as recovery isn’t part of the classic GAS sequence.

When a stressor is perceived, the body immediately mobilizes its resources for quick action. This immediate mobilization is the Alarm stage of the general adaptation syndrome. It involves the sympathetic nervous system and the HPA axis releasing adrenaline and cortisol, which fast-tracks physiological readiness: heart rate and respiration rise, blood pressure increases, glucose is released for quick energy, and senses sharpen. All of this happens to prepare the body to confront or escape the threat. If stress persists, the body shifts into the resistance stage to cope over time, and with prolonged stress it can move toward exhaustion. The option labeled as recovery isn’t part of the classic GAS sequence.