Concept of General Adaptation Syndrome

February 26 2025 TalktoAngel 0 comments 376 Views

Stress is an inevitable part of life, and how our body responds to it can have a significant impact on our overall health. The General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), introduced by Hans Selye in 1936, is a groundbreaking concept that describes the three stages of the body’s physiological response to stress. Understanding GAS provides valuable insight into how stress affects us and the importance of managing it for long-term well-being.

What is General Adaptation Syndrome?

General Adaptation Syndrome is a three-phase model that explains how the body reacts to sustained stress. According to Selye, when exposed to a stressor, the body undergoes a predictable sequence of physiological responses aimed at coping with the challenge. These three stages are:

1. Alarm Stage

This initial phase occurs when the body perceives a stressor, triggering the "fight or flight" response. The activation of the sympathetic nervous system triggers the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones prepare the body to deal with the perceived threat by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and energy availability.

Symptoms during the alarm stage may include:

Increased heart rate
Rapid breathing
Heightened alertness
Sweating
Tensed muscles

While this response is vital for immediate survival, prolonged activation of the alarm stage can lead to fatigue and depletion of resources.

2. Resistance Stage

If the stressor continues, the body enters the resistance stage. Here, the body attempts to adapt to the stressor and return to a balanced state, or homeostasis. Cortisol levels remain elevated, but the body works to reduce its initial alarm reaction.

During this stage, individuals may feel they are coping well, but prolonged exposure to stress without resolution can lead to wear and tear on the body. Symptoms in the resistance stage include:

Fatigue
Irritability
Reduced immunity
Difficulty concentrating

3. Exhaustion Stage

If the stress continues unabated and the body's adaptive resources are depleted, it enters the exhaustion stage. This is the final phase, where prolonged stress overwhelms the body, leading to physical and mental health issues.

Symptoms of exhaustion may include:

Chronic pain
Depression or anxiety
Weakened immune function
Increased risk of health conditions, such as heart disease and hypertension

The exhaustion stage underscores the need for effective stress management strategies to prevent long-term damage.

Causes of Stress Leading to GAS

Stressors triggering GAS can be physical, emotional, or environmental. Common examples include:

Work-related stress: High demands, deadlines, or workplace conflicts
Relationship issues: Marital problems, family conflicts, or loneliness breathing helps calm the mind and body.
Regular Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing stress.
Balanced Nutrition: A healthy diet supports energy levels and strengthens immunity.
Seeking Professional Help: Therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and counselling can help individuals develop coping mechanisms.

The Role of Professional Support

Stress is a common yet manageable aspect of life. If you're finding it difficult to manage stress and its effects, reaching out to professionals can provide much-needed relief.

At TalktoAngel, we offer access to experienced therapists and counsellors who specialize in stress management and related mental health issues. Our experts provide evidence-based therapies, such as DBT, to help you identify stressors and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, burnout, or chronic stress, online counselling with TalktoAngel ensures you receive compassionate and confidential support tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

The General Adaptation Syndrome highlights how our bodies respond to stress and the importance of addressing it before it leads to exhaustion. By understanding GAS, we can recognize the signs of stress early and take proactive steps to manage it effectively. With the support of platforms like TalktoAngel, you can learn to navigate stress, regain balance, and build resilience for a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Contributed by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach & Ms. Sangeeta Pal, Counselling Psychologist

References

American Psychological Association. (2020). Stress affects on the body. www.apa.org
Selye, H. (1950). Stress and the General Adaptation Syndrome. British Medical Journal, 1(4667), 1383-1392.
McEwen, B. S. (2007). Physiology and neurobiology of stress and adaptation: Central role of the brain. Physiological Reviews, 87(3), 873-904.
Sapolsky, R. M. (2004). Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers. Holt Paperbacks.
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Stress management. www.mayoclinic.org