HLTH 102 Lecture Notes - Lecture 7: Autonomic Nervous System, Stressor, Endorphins
Document Summary
Misunderstood as: uncomfortable response to a negative event (nervous tension)- more than physical and psychological responses. Definition: general physiological and emotional state that accompanies the stress response. Stressor: situation or event that triggers physical and emotional reactions vs. Stress response: how one responds to those situations (impair physical and emotional health) Require the nervous system and endocrine system (prepares the body to respond to a stressor) Glands, tissues, cells to control body functions by releasing hormones into the bloodstream. Release of cortisol and epinephrine (hormones) trigger physiological changes under stressful situations. Ex: liver release more sugar for energy, brain release endorphins: chemicals that inhibit or block sensations of pain (when you are injured) = fight-or-flight reaction (see pg 68 for body"s responses) Once stressful situation is over- parasympathetic stops stress response- restoring homeostasis: state at which blood pressure, heart rate, hormone levels, and other vital functions are maintained at a normal rate.