Snx, S

AS Explanation

Body’s response to acute stressors

Acute stressors are caused by short term stress in someone’s life. These could include performing in front of a crowd or being involved within a car accident. When the body becomes stressed, the hypothalamus sends a signal to the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The autonomic nervous system controls two separate branches; the sympathetic and para sympathetic branch. The sympathetic branch is used when the body needs to start its stress response and sends signals to the adrenal medulla. This releases adrenaline to prepare for the fight or flight response; a feature which has been adapted from our older ancestors who needed this adrenaline rush in order to hunt.

Hypothalamus ANS Sympathetic Branch Adrenal Medulla Adrenaline

Hypothalamus ANS Sympathetic Branch Adrenal Medulla Adrenaline

Para Sympathetic Branch Release of Energy

Para Sympathetic Branch Release of Energy

Body’s response to chronic stressors

Chronic stressor are caused by a prolonged stress in someone’s life. These could include raising a child, a busy work load or an illness. Similarly to acute stressors, the response starts with the hypothalamus which sends CRF to the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland then sends the chemical ACTH to the adrenal cortex. The adrenal cortex controls the release of cortisol to the body – this increases blood sugar levels and gives the person energy required to deal with the situation.

CRF ACTH

CRF ACTH

Hypothalamus Pituitary Gland Adrenal Cortex Cortisol Released

Hypothalamus Pituitary Gland...