stresssvar

Stresssvar refers to the body's response to perceived or actual stressors. In English, the term is usually called the stress response. The response involves the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems and serves to prepare an organism for action, modulating physiology and behavior to cope with a challenge.

Two main pathways coordinate the stress response. The sympathetic-adrenal-medullary (SAM) axis triggers the quick release of adrenaline and noradrenaline, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and glucose availability. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis releases hormones such as corticotropin-releasing hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and cortisol, which support sustained alertness and energy supply. These hormonal changes are accompanied by immune and metabolic adjustments that help mobilize resources for the task at hand.

The stress response can be adaptive in the short term but may become harmful with chronic activation. Repeated or prolonged exposure leads to allostatic load, contributing to immune suppression, metabolic disturbances, cognitive and mood changes, and higher risks for cardiovascular disease, anxiety, and depression. Classical models describe stages of the response, including alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

Individual differences influence the magnitude and quality of the response. Genetics, early life experiences, social support, and coping strategies shape how someone reacts to stress. Measurement involves subjective assessments of perceived stress and objective biomarkers such as cortisol in saliva, blood, or hair. Interventions to modulate stress responses include reducing exposure to stressors, improving sleep, regular exercise, mindfulness and relaxation practices, and cognitive-behavioral approaches.