Stress pathways- Psychology

Also called the SAM;

 A stressor is percieved

The sympthetic branch of the autonomic nervous system is stimulated

The adrenal medulla releases both adrenalin and nor-adrenalin

Heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen and glucose levels increase

Digestion is surpressed

This pathway is activated when a sudden stressor occurs such as crossing the road and a car comes speeding down without you realising.

This response is called the fight or flight response.

Also called the HPA;

The pituitary gland releases ACTH (Adreno-corticotrophic hormone)

The adrenal cortex produces cortisol

This stimulates the liver to release stored glucose

The immune system is surpressed

This pathway is activated when chronic stressors occur.