The General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), also known as stress syndrome, is a concept developed by psychologist Hans Selye in the 1930s. It refers to the body's physical and psychological response to stressful situations. The GAS describes how the body adapts and responds to stressful stimuli, whether physical, emotional or environmental.
Origin and concept of the General Adaptation Syndrome
Hans Selye, an Austro-Hungarian physician and researcher, first introduced the concept of SGA into scientific literature in the 1930s. After conducting a series of experiments on laboratory animals, Selye observed that, independently Depending on the type of stressful stimulus they were subjected to, the animals showed a series of similar bodily responses.
Selye identified three different phases of the SGA that describe the organism's response to stress: the alarm phase, the of resistance and the exhaustion phase. These phases represent the way the body adapts and responds to the constant pressure of stress.
Phases of General Adaptation Syndrome
Alarm phase: In this initial stage, the body recognizes the stressful stimulus and activates its defense mechanism. During this phase, immediate physiological changes occur, such as an increase in the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones prepare the body to deal with the stressful situation, which is commonly known as the "fight or flight response".
Resistance phase: If the Stress persists and the pressure on the body is maintained, the resistance phase comes into play. At this stage, the body tries to adapt to the stressful situation and restore internal balance. Levels of stress hormones remain high, which can affect various systems of the body, such as the immune, cardiovascular and digestive systems.
Exhaustion phase: If stress continues for a prolonged period and the body fails to regain its balance, the exhaustion phase is reached. At this point, the body's resources are depleted, and symptoms of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion occur. The immune system weakens, the risk of diseases and disorders increases, and the person may experience a deterioration in their general well-being.
Causes of General Adaptation Syndrome
GAS can be triggered by a variety of stressors, both internal and external. Some of the common causes that can contribute to the development of General Adjustment Syndrome include:
Emotional and psychological factors
Negative emotions, such as anxiety, fear, anger or sadness. sadness, can trigger stress responses in the body. Excessive responsibilities, work pressure, interpersonal conflicts or the loss of a loved one can also be triggering factors for GHS.
Environmental factors
The environment in which you find yourself a person can contribute significantly to stress. Excessive noise, pollution, poor living conditions or extreme climate changes are just some examples of environmental factors that can trigger GAS.
Physical factors
Illnesses, injuries , lack of sleep, poor diet or a sedentary lifestyle can affect the body's ability to cope with stress. Unhealthy habits and lack of self-care can increase vulnerability to developing GAS.
Symptoms of General Adaptation Syndrome
GAS symptoms can manifest in various ways and affect both on a physical and emotional level. Some of the most common symptoms of General Adaptation Syndrome include:
Physical symptoms
- Recurrent headaches and migraines
- Digestive problems, such as pain stomach or diarrhea
- Constant fatigue or feeling of exhaustion
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or difficulty falling asleep
- Recurring health problems, such as colds or infections
- Muscle tension or body aches
Emotional symptoms
- Anxiety, nervousness or excessive worry
- Irritability or changes in mood
- Depression or persistent feeling of sadness
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Disinterest in activities that were previously pleasurable
It is important to note that GAS symptoms can vary from person to person and may manifest differently depending on individual circumstances. The accurate diagnosis of General Adaptation Syndrome requires the evaluation of a mental health professional, who can design an appropriate treatment plan according to the specific needs of each patient.
In conclusion, General Adaptation Syndrome It is a fundamental stress response mechanism that allows us to adapt to life's challenges. However, when stress lasts over time and exceeds the body's coping resources, it can trigger a series of physical and emotional symptoms that affect our health and well-being. Recognizing the signs of GAS, identifying its causes, and seeking professional help when necessary are essential steps to effectively manage stress and promote healthy emotional and physical balance.