What happens during the resistance stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome?

During the resistance stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome, the body actively engages in hormonal responses to manage ongoing stressors. This phase follows the alarm stage, where the body initially reacts to a stressor, activating the "fight or flight" response. In the resistance stage, the body's physiological systems are still responding to the stress but are now more focused on sustaining energy and adapting to the stressor.

During this stage, the hypothalamus releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This, in turn, triggers the adrenal glands to produce glucocorticoids, such as cortisol. These hormones help regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation, and support energy supply, allowing the body to withstand prolonged stress.

The focus of the resistance stage is on adaptation and survival, as the body works to restore homeostasis while still being under duress. The enduring activation of these hormonal pathways signifies the body's attempt to manage the stressor effectively. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for recognizing how prolonged stress can affect overall health and lead to various physiological and psychological issues if the stressor persists beyond the resistance stage.