What is the first stage of General Adaptation Syndrome?

The first stage of General Adaptation Syndrome is the alarm stage. This concept, developed by Hans Selye, describes the body's immediate response to a stressor. When an individual encounters a stressor, the alarm stage represents the initial reaction, where the body becomes aware of the threat and activates its "fight or flight" response. This involves the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body to deal with the challenge at hand.

During this stage, various physiological changes occur, including increased heart rate, heightened alertness, and a boost in energy levels, enabling the individual to respond effectively to the stressor. Recognizing this as the starting point of the body's stress response helps in understanding subsequent stages of adaptation, where the body either continues to cope with the stressor or begins to tire under pressure.