Psy 210 Effects of Stress (a) Paper

The first step of the general adaptation syndrome that I will experience is the alarm reaction or the fight or flight reaction. The alarm reaction automatically increases the heartbeat and respiration. It also causes the pituitary gland to secrete steroidal hormones to use stored energy to manage the stress that it has incurred. The second step of the GAS is the resistance stage. This stage is when the body tries to repair and restore itself. If these new sources of stress were not adequately dealt with then the GAS would go into the exhaustion stage. This stage is exactly as it is named, the body can no longer repair itself and is more susceptible to illnesses, diseases, and possibly heart attack or death.

The emotional effects that this stressor might produce are anxiety and depression. Anxiety- the stressors are fear of failure. In particular, state anxiety, this can result in rapid heartbeat and breathing, sweating and muscle tension. Depression- fear of failure and prolonged stress. The result of these stresses could result in possible escape behavior and withdrawal. The cognitive effects of stress include memory loss, the inability to stay focused, and weaken problem-solving abilities.

If these stresses continue, the effects on my health would be weakening my immune system. The steroidal hormones that are released in the GAS (alarm reaction) suppress the performance of the immune system. If the immune system is suppressed, I am leaving my body open to viruses, bacteria, and fungi.

I would delegate some of my workload, talk to my supervisor to allocate and assistant; if I am doing the work load of a advertising executive I should be given the same tools in order to do my job effectively. I would also allocate my time effectively, utilize some time for myself, and force myself to take it. I could also write about the stresses in my life to help lessen the burden.