What is one potential outcome of prolonged stress according to general adaptation syndrome?

What is one potential outcome of prolonged stress according to general adaptation syndrome?

• A. Enhanced immune function
• B. Heightened alertness
• C. Exhaustion leading to health issues
• D. Improved coping mechanisms

Answer: (C)

Prolonged stress can lead to exhaustion, which is a key outcome described in general adaptation syndrome (GAS). GAS, proposed by Hans Selye, outlines how organisms respond to stress in three stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. In the exhaustion stage, the body's resources become depleted after continuous exposure to stressors. This state of prolonged stress can weaken the immune system and contribute to various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, anxiety, and depression, highlighting the adverse effects of chronic stress on overall health. While temporary stress can mobilize energy and heighten alertness, consistent stress over time does not result in sustained improvements but rather contributes to fatigue and health complications. Thus, the outcome of exhaustion leading to health issues accurately reflects the consequences of prolonged stress.

Prolonged stress can lead to exhaustion, which is a key outcome described in general adaptation syndrome (GAS). GAS, proposed by Hans Selye, outlines how organisms respond to stress in three stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. In the exhaustion stage, the body's resources become depleted after continuous exposure to stressors. This state of prolonged stress can weaken the immune system and contribute to various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, anxiety, and depression, highlighting the adverse effects of chronic stress on overall health.

While temporary stress can mobilize energy and heighten alertness, consistent stress over time does not result in sustained improvements but rather contributes to fatigue and health complications. Thus, the outcome of exhaustion leading to health issues accurately reflects the consequences of prolonged stress.