Overview

• General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) is a concept developed by Hans Selye to describe how our bodies respond to stress.

Stages of GAS

1. Alarm Stage:
   • The body detects a stressor and prepares for “fight or flight.”
   • Example: Feeling a rush of adrenaline when you see a snake.
2. Resistance Stage:
   • The body tries to adapt to the ongoing stress.
   • Example: Studying for exams despite feeling overwhelmed.
3. Exhaustion Stage:
   • Prolonged stress leads to fatigue and decreased function.
   • Example: Feeling burnt out after weeks of stress at work.

Conclusion

GAS illustrates how stress affects our physical and mental health, emphasizing the importance of managing stress effectively.