The stress conundrum: How we are wired to managing it
Summary
The article explains the physiological and psychological mechanisms behind the human stress response, detailing how the body prioritizes energy use and sensory functioning during stress, and the effects of prolonged stress on health.
Key Points
- The stress response mobilizes the body's fuel reserves and increases vital organ function to address immediate threats.
- Prolonged stress negatively impacts growth and reproductive hormones, causing health disorders.
- Stress alters sensory acuity, enhancing sensitivity to strong stimuli but reducing detection of faint ones.
- The hypothalamus and reticular activating system play crucial roles in triggering and managing the stress response.
