The fight or flight response

• When we experience an acute stressor, the hypothalamus directs the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system to send neurotransmitters to the adrenal medulla. This causes the release of adrenaline into the bloodstream.


  The fight or flight response
• The release of adrenaline as well as noradrenaline into the bloodstream causes a ‘fight or flight’ response by triggering a number of phsyiological reactions.


  The fight or flight response
• These reactions are caused by the sympathetic branch of the ANS. They include the emergency functions such as an increased heart rate. It also suppresses non emergency bodily functions such as digestion.

  • When the threat has passed the parasympathetic branch of the ANS returns the body back to its original state.


  The fight or flight response