Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A stressful event refers to a situation or circumstance that causes physical or psychological strain on an individual, leading to feelings of pressure, tension, or anxiety.
Related terms
Fight-or-flight response: This term refers to the body's physiological reaction to a perceived threat or stressor. It prepares the body for action by increasing heart rate, releasing adrenaline, and boosting energy levels.
This hormone is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It helps regulate blood pressure, suppresses the immune system temporarily, and increases glucose levels for energy.
GAS is a three-stage model that describes the body's response to stressors: alarm (initial shock), resistance (adaptation phase), and exhaustion (prolonged exposure leading to depletion of resources).