Understanding the Three Stages of Stress: Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome

According to Hans Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) principle, the body responds to stress in three predictable stages:

1. Alarm Reaction: This is the initial stage of stress, where the body prepares to respond to a threat. The heart rate and breathing increase, muscles tense up, and the senses are heightened.

2. Resistance Stage: In this stage, the body tries to adapt to the stress and maintain its balance. The heart rate and breathing slow down, and the body starts to repair itself.

3. Exhaustion Stage: If the stress is prolonged, the body's resources are depleted, and it can no longer cope with the stress. This can lead to physical and psychological problems, such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression.