Stressitasoon

Stressitasoon is a term used in theoretical discussions of the body's stress response to describe a rapid, system-wide alignment of neuroendocrine, autonomic, and immune processes during acute stress. It denotes a transient state in which signals from brain stress circuits trigger a tightly coordinated wave of physiological changes intended to enhance immediate survival, potentially at the expense of longer-term homeostasis.

In proposed mechanisms, stressitasoon is described as arising when stress inputs activate fast-acting neural pathways in the hypothalamus and amygdala, leading to rapid release of catecholamines and other neuromodulators, followed by activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. This produces synchronized increases in heart rate, blood pressure, glucose mobilization, and inflammatory markers within minutes, reflecting a coordinated cascade across organ systems rather than a single biomarker.

Origin and usage: The term originated in theoretical discussions during the 2010s and has appeared in some modeling studies and science communication contexts. It is not part of standard physiology and has not achieved broad empirical validation. In many usages, stressitasoon functions as a metaphor for the immediate onset phase of the allostatic response rather than a distinct physiological entity.

Status and critique: Proponents argue that it highlights the rapid, coordinated nature of acute stress responses. Critics contend that without clear operational definitions and measurable criteria, the term risks vagueness and confusion with existing concepts such as the acute stress response and allostatic load. Further research would be needed to establish definable parameters and reliable indicators.

See also: Allostasis, HPA axis, Autonomic nervous system, Stress response, Allostatic load.