Flight or Fight response

MAIN THING

The fight or flight response is our body's instinctive reaction to danger. It prepares us to either fight the threat or flee from it. This response involves a complex series of events within the Autonomic Nervous System, Adrenal Glands, and hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.

1. Perception of Threat: The brain perceives danger and sends a distress signal to the Autonomic Nervous System.

2. Autonomic Nervous System Activation: The Autonomic Nervous System, which controls involuntary body functions, is activated.

3. Adrenal Glands Response: The Adrenal Glands, located above the kidneys, receive a signal to release hormones.

4. Hormone Release: Hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol are released into the bloodstream.

5. Physiological Changes: These hormones cause several changes in the body, such as increased heart rate, heightened senses, and a surge of energy.

Example: When you encounter a growling dog, your body goes through these steps, preparing you to either defend yourself or run away.

TERMS

• Adrenaline – a hormone that increases heart rate, energy levels, and alertness. Example: When you're scared, adrenaline rushes through your body, making you ready to react quickly.

• Cortisol – a hormone that helps the body manage stress. Example: During a stressful event, cortisol levels rise to provide extra energy and suppress nonessential functions.

• Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) – the part of the nervous system that manages involuntary functions. Example: The ANS kicks into high gear during the fight or flight response, increasing your heart rate.

• Adrenal Glands – small glands located above the kidneys that release hormones. Example: Your adrenal glands flood your body with adrenaline and cortisol when you're stressed.

• Hormones – chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream to tissues or organs. Example: Hormones like adrenaline and cortisol prepare your body for quick action during the fight or flight response.

AN ANALOGY

Consider the fight or flight response as similar to deciding between using the brakes or accelerator in a car to avoid an accident. Depending on the situation, you might need to stop suddenly or speed up to evade a threat. The Autonomic Nervous System, Adrenal Glands, and hormones coordinate like a driver's quick reflexes, choosing the right action to keep you safe.

Example: If a ball rolls onto the street while driving, you might brake (fight) to avoid hitting it or accelerate (flight) to pass before it becomes a danger, just as your body decides between fight or flight in a dangerous situation.

A MAIN MISCONCEPTION

A widespread misconception is that during the fight or flight response, we are helpless and cannot control our actions. In fact, while the initial response is automatic, we can learn to manage our reactions through techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness.

Example: Even though your heart races and you feel anxious during an unexpected confrontation, you can use calming strategies to control your response and act thoughtfully.

THE HISTORY

1. Early 1900s: Walter Cannon introduces the term "fight or flight" to describe animals' instinctive reactions to threats.

2. 1930s-1950s: Scientists start exploring the fight or flight response in humans, discovering its link to the Autonomic Nervous System and Adrenal Glands.

3. 1970s: Research reveals that psychological stressors, not just physical threats, can trigger the fight or flight response.

4. 2000s: The understanding of the fight or flight response expands to include the role of various hormones like adrenaline and cortisol in preparing the body for action.

Quote: "The fight or flight response is a survival mechanism, enabling people and animals to react swiftly to life-threatening situations." – Walter Cannon, renowned for his pioneering work on the fight or flight response.

THREE CASES HOW TO USE IT RIGHT NOW

1. During an Argument: Recognize the rapid heartbeat and tension as your fight or flight response. Take deep breaths to calm down and address the situation more rationally.

2. When Facing a Deadline: The stress of a looming deadline can trigger your fight or flight response. Use this energy surge to focus and complete your task efficiently.

3. Encountering a Stray Animal: If you come across a potentially dangerous animal, your fight or flight response will help you decide quickly whether to stay still, scare it away, or slowly back off.

INTERESTING FACTS

• The fight or flight response can be triggered in less than a second.

• Adrenaline can boost your physical capabilities temporarily, making you run faster or fight harder.

• Chronic activation of the fight or flight response can lead to health issues, including anxiety and heart problems.

• Animals also exhibit a fight or flight response, which is crucial for their survival in the wild.

• Meditation and mindfulness can help regulate the fight or flight response, reducing its activation by everyday stressors.