Stress leads our bodies through a set of physiological responses that are defined by three stages. Using this simple stage idea we can better navigate our own stress and the shocking effects stress can have on those we work with, live with, and love.
Alarm stage: The body responds to stress by kicking out adrenaline into the blood stream. The initial adrenaline “rush” can lead to many behaviors that once were productive – run away, throw rock @ lion – but may not be productive with your team members, family or friends.
Resistance: The body mobilizes resources to fight the source of the stressor. Most of us have figured out that going with our instinct of “fight or flight” is counter productive. However, the cost of remaining calm under pressure is significant.
Exhaustion: If the body defeats or removes the stressor the body moves to a recovery stage and begins the process of renewing the resources it spent dealing with the stress. If the stress remains the body starts the cycle all over again, draining vital organs and physiologic systems leading to predictable illnesses and loss of quality of life.
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