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Stress skipped period. Stress-Induced Missed Periods: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

by alexxlab

How does stress impact menstrual cycles. What are the mechanisms behind stress-related amenorrhea. Can managing stress help regulate periods. What are effective strategies for coping with menstrual irregularities due to stress.

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The Link Between Stress and Menstrual Irregularities

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but when it becomes excessive, it can have far-reaching effects on our bodies, including our menstrual cycles. Many women have experienced the phenomenon of a missed or delayed period during times of high stress, but the exact mechanisms behind this occurrence are not fully understood. This article delves into the complex relationship between stress and menstrual irregularities, exploring the potential causes, effects, and solutions for stress-induced missed periods.

Can stress really cause a missed period? While it may seem unlikely, the answer is yes. Stress can indeed lead to temporary amenorrhea, which is the absence of menstruation. This condition, known as secondary amenorrhea when it occurs after a woman has already started having regular periods, can be triggered by various factors, with stress being a significant contributor.

How Stress Affects the Menstrual Cycle

The impact of stress on menstruation is primarily due to its effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. This complex system involves the interplay of various hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. When stress levels rise, it can disrupt the delicate balance of these hormones, potentially leading to irregular or missed periods.

  • Hypothalamus suppression: Stress can inhibit the functioning of the hypothalamus, a small region in the brain that plays a crucial role in hormone regulation.
  • Pituitary gland disruption: The pituitary gland, often called the “master gland,” is controlled by the hypothalamus and is responsible for producing hormones that stimulate the ovaries.
  • Ovarian dysfunction: When the hypothalamus and pituitary gland are affected, it can lead to problems with ovarian function, including issues with estrogen production and ovulation.

Do all women experience menstrual irregularities due to stress? Not necessarily. The impact of stress on menstruation can vary greatly from person to person. Some women may be more sensitive to stress-induced hormonal changes, while others may maintain regular cycles even during highly stressful periods.

Understanding Secondary Amenorrhea

Secondary amenorrhea is defined as the absence of menstruation for three or more consecutive months in a woman who previously had regular periods. While stress is a common cause, it’s important to note that other factors can also contribute to this condition.

Potential Causes of Secondary Amenorrhea

  1. Pregnancy
  2. Hormonal imbalances
  3. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  4. Thyroid disorders
  5. Excessive exercise
  6. Significant weight loss or gain
  7. Certain medications

Is it necessary to see a doctor for a missed period? If you’ve missed more than one period and you’re not pregnant, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine the underlying cause and rule out any serious conditions.

The Role of Hormones in Stress-Induced Menstrual Changes

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle, and stress can significantly impact their production and balance. Understanding the hormonal changes that occur during stress can help explain why menstrual irregularities may occur.

Key Hormones Affected by Stress

  • Cortisol: Often referred to as the “stress hormone,” cortisol levels increase during times of stress. Elevated cortisol can interfere with the production of reproductive hormones.
  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH): Produced by the hypothalamus, GnRH stimulates the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. Stress can disrupt GnRH production.
  • Estrogen: This primary female sex hormone is essential for building the uterine lining and preparing the body for pregnancy. Stress-induced ovarian dysfunction can lead to decreased estrogen production.
  • Progesterone: Another crucial hormone for menstruation and pregnancy, progesterone levels can be affected by stress-related hormonal imbalances.

How does cortisol affect reproductive hormones? Elevated cortisol levels can suppress the production of GnRH, which in turn reduces the release of FSH and LH. This hormonal cascade can ultimately lead to irregular or absent periods.

Recognizing Stress-Related Menstrual Symptoms

While a missed period is the most obvious sign of stress-induced menstrual irregularities, there are other symptoms that women may experience. Being aware of these signs can help you identify when stress might be affecting your menstrual cycle.

Common Symptoms of Stress-Related Menstrual Changes

  • Irregular cycles: Periods may become unpredictable, occurring earlier or later than expected.
  • Changes in flow: Some women may experience heavier or lighter periods than usual.
  • Increased PMS symptoms: Stress can exacerbate premenstrual syndrome symptoms, such as mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness.
  • Spotting: Light bleeding or spotting between periods may occur.
  • Fatigue: Increased tiredness or exhaustion, especially around the time of expected menstruation.
  • Changes in libido: Stress can affect sex drive, which may fluctuate more than usual.

Can stress cause long-term menstrual problems? In most cases, stress-induced menstrual irregularities are temporary and resolve once stress levels decrease. However, chronic stress can potentially lead to more persistent menstrual issues if left unaddressed.

Strategies for Managing Stress and Regulating Menstrual Cycles

Effectively managing stress is key to helping your body revert to a normal menstrual cycle. Implementing stress-reduction techniques and adopting healthy lifestyle habits can make a significant difference in both your overall well-being and menstrual regularity.

Effective Stress Management Techniques

  1. Mindfulness meditation: Regular practice can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
  2. Yoga: Combining physical postures with breath work can alleviate stress and improve hormonal balance.
  3. Regular exercise: Moderate physical activity can help reduce stress and regulate hormones.
  4. Adequate sleep: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene can help manage stress levels and support hormonal balance.
  5. Balanced nutrition: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support overall health and hormonal function.
  6. Time management: Organizing tasks and setting realistic goals can help reduce feelings of overwhelm.
  7. Social support: Connecting with friends, family, or a support group can provide emotional relief.

How long does it take for periods to regulate after reducing stress? The time it takes for menstrual cycles to normalize can vary from person to person. Some women may see improvements within a few weeks, while others may take several months to regain regularity.

When to Seek Medical Help for Menstrual Irregularities

While stress-induced menstrual changes are often temporary, there are situations where it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. Being aware of warning signs can help you determine when medical intervention may be necessary.

Signs That Warrant Medical Attention

  • Absence of periods for more than three consecutive months
  • Extremely heavy or prolonged bleeding
  • Severe pain during menstruation that interferes with daily activities
  • Irregular bleeding between periods
  • Sudden changes in cycle length or flow that persist for several months
  • Menstrual irregularities accompanied by other symptoms like weight changes, hair loss, or excessive hair growth

What tests might a doctor perform for menstrual irregularities? A healthcare provider may conduct various tests to determine the cause of menstrual irregularities, including:

  • Blood tests to check hormone levels
  • Thyroid function tests
  • Pelvic examination
  • Ultrasound to check for structural abnormalities
  • Pregnancy test

Holistic Approaches to Menstrual Health and Stress Management

Taking a holistic approach to menstrual health and stress management can be beneficial in maintaining regular cycles and overall well-being. This involves addressing not only physical health but also emotional and mental aspects of stress and menstrual irregularities.

Complementary Therapies for Menstrual Health

  • Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique may help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce stress.
  • Herbal remedies: Certain herbs like chasteberry and dong quai have been traditionally used to support menstrual health.
  • Aromatherapy: Essential oils such as lavender and clary sage may help alleviate stress and balance hormones.
  • Massage therapy: Regular massages can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This type of therapy can help manage stress and anxiety related to menstrual irregularities.

Are complementary therapies effective for all women experiencing stress-related menstrual issues? The effectiveness of these therapies can vary from person to person. It’s important to consult with a qualified practitioner and inform your healthcare provider before starting any new treatments.

Lifestyle Modifications for Hormonal Balance

In addition to stress management techniques, certain lifestyle modifications can support hormonal balance and regular menstrual cycles:

  1. Maintaining a healthy weight: Both underweight and overweight conditions can affect menstrual regularity.
  2. Limiting caffeine and alcohol: Excessive consumption of these substances can disrupt hormone levels.
  3. Reducing exposure to endocrine disruptors: Minimize contact with environmental toxins that can interfere with hormonal function.
  4. Practicing good sleep hygiene: Consistent sleep patterns support hormonal balance.
  5. Managing chronic conditions: Properly treating underlying health issues can improve menstrual regularity.

How can diet impact menstrual health? A balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can support hormonal balance. Some nutrients that are particularly important for menstrual health include:

  • Iron: Helps prevent anemia, which can be a concern during menstruation
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: May help reduce inflammation and menstrual pain
  • Vitamin D: Important for hormonal balance and overall reproductive health
  • B vitamins: Support energy levels and mood regulation during the menstrual cycle
  • Magnesium: Can help alleviate menstrual cramps and mood swings

The Impact of Chronic Stress on Long-Term Reproductive Health

While occasional stress-induced menstrual irregularities are usually temporary, chronic stress can have more far-reaching effects on reproductive health. Understanding these potential long-term impacts can emphasize the importance of effective stress management for overall well-being.

Potential Long-Term Effects of Chronic Stress

  • Increased risk of infertility: Prolonged stress can interfere with ovulation and make conception more difficult.
  • Higher likelihood of menstrual disorders: Chronic stress may contribute to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis.
  • Earlier onset of menopause: Some studies suggest that chronic stress might lead to earlier menopause.
  • Increased risk of osteoporosis: Stress-induced hormonal imbalances can affect bone density over time.
  • Greater susceptibility to reproductive cancers: While the link is not fully understood, chronic stress may increase the risk of certain reproductive cancers.

Can the effects of chronic stress on reproductive health be reversed? In many cases, addressing chronic stress and implementing healthy lifestyle changes can help improve reproductive health. However, the extent of recovery may depend on individual factors and the duration of chronic stress exposure.

Stress Management as Preventive Care

Given the potential long-term impacts of chronic stress on reproductive health, it’s crucial to view stress management as a form of preventive care. Implementing stress reduction techniques and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help protect your reproductive health in the long run.

  1. Regular health check-ups: Schedule routine visits with your healthcare provider to monitor your overall and reproductive health.
  2. Stress screening: Consider regular stress assessments to identify and address high stress levels early.
  3. Work-life balance: Strive to maintain a healthy balance between work, personal life, and self-care.
  4. Stress education: Learn about stress and its effects on the body to better recognize and manage stressors.
  5. Support systems: Build and maintain strong support networks to help cope with life’s challenges.

How can employers support menstrual health and stress management? Workplace initiatives that can help include:

  • Flexible work arrangements to accommodate menstrual symptoms
  • Stress management workshops and resources
  • On-site relaxation spaces or meditation rooms
  • Comprehensive health insurance that covers mental health services
  • Policies that destigmatize menstrual health discussions in the workplace

In conclusion, understanding the intricate relationship between stress and menstrual health is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. By recognizing the signs of stress-induced menstrual irregularities and implementing effective stress management strategies, women can take proactive steps to support their reproductive health. Remember that while stress is an inevitable part of life, its impact on your menstrual cycle doesn’t have to be. With the right approach and support, it’s possible to maintain hormonal balance and regular menstrual cycles even during challenging times.

Missed Period Due to Stress

Imagine you’re planning a dream vacation — taking a 13-hour flight to Sydney so you can swim in the Great Barrier Reef and trek through the Australian Outback. You’ve got a lot to organize and pack, and the thought of dealing with a menstrual period so far from home begins to worry you. Will you be able to handle any uncomfortable cramps and back pain on such a long flight? If your period comes while you’re on vacation, will you still be able to snorkel among the coral?

Your Menstrual Period and the Power of Stress

Even though you may not be planning an adventure around the world, stress and anxiety can still take a toll on you – and your period. Although some stress can be good and even help us challenge ourselves, too much can negatively impact health. The body is sensitive to any unexpected disruptions. Excessive worrying can put the digestive system into overdrive, causing stress symptoms like diarrhea, frequent urination, and abdominal pain; the pulmonary system may respond with rapid breathing.

The female reproductive system can be affected, too. In fact, for some women, stress may play a role in causing irregular or missed periods. As stress levels rise, there’s a chance that your menstrual period will temporarily stop, a condition known as secondary amenorrhea.

(If you’ve been dealing with amenorrhea for a few months, however, your doctor may ask about your health history and perform various tests, including checking hormone levels. Pregnancy, cysts, tumors, hormone deficiencies, and factors other than stress can cause more than one missed period.)

How Stress May Affect Menstruation

Not much is known about the relationship between stress and periods. However, stress certainly plays a role in suppressing the functioning of the hypothalamus, which controls the pituitary gland — the body’s master gland — which, in turn, controls the thyroid and adrenal glands and the ovaries; they all work together to manage hormones.

Ovarian dysfunction may lead to problems with estrogen production, ovulation, or other reproductive processes. Estrogen is an important hormone that helps build the uterine lining and prepares the body for pregnancy. If the ovaries aren’t working properly, side effects may involve the menstrual cycle, including missed periods or irregular periods.

Getting Back on Track

Because stress can affect the part of the brain responsible for producing hormones, it can throw hormonal levels out of whack, which can lead to changes in the frequency and duration of your menstrual period.

Reducing your level of stress or finding effective coping mechanisms may help your body revert to a normal menstrual period. Talking with a therapist or possibly taking anti-anxiety medication can lower stress and help you manage stress symptoms, eventually allowing your system to return to regularity.

It’s not possible to completely eliminate stress from your everyday life, nor would you want to. Finding healthy methods to cope with excessive stress is the best way to not let it wreak havoc on your body’s natural functioning.

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How Long Can Stress Delay Your Period?

Updated

03 February 2023

|

Published

07 March 2019

Fact Checked

Reviewed by Dr. Andrei Marhol, General practitioner, medical advisor, Flo Health Inc., Lithuania

Flo Fact-Checking Standards

Every piece of content at Flo Health adheres to the highest editorial standards for language, style, and medical accuracy. To learn what we do to deliver the best health and lifestyle insights to you, check out our content review principles.

The average menstrual cycle is 28 days long, although it’s normal for a menstrual cycle to be anywhere from 21 to 35 days, and this can vary by a few days each cycle without being considered late. 

A general rule of thumb is that a period is considered late if it is delayed by five days or more. 

Anyone who gets a period will probably experience a late period at least once in their life. It may come as a surprise that stress is actually a very common cause for a late period. If a period is delayed due to stress, how late it is depends on many factors, including the amount of stress, coping abilities, and the person’s individual cycle. 

If the stress is acute, your period might only be a few days late, but some people who experience severe chronic stress can go months without getting a period.

Can stress delay your period? 

Having a manageable amount of stress in your life is normal. But excessive levels of stress, whether physical or mental, can be detrimental to your health. One of the effects of stress is a spike in cortisol, sometimes called “the stress hormone.” 

This is how it happens. Extreme physical, emotional, or nutritional stress activates a chain reaction in your body. It starts from changes in brain activity and activity in the brain endocrine glands, passes through the suprarenal gland where stress hormones — cortisol and adrenaline — are released into the blood, and disrupts the hormonal balance of the reproductive organs.

What to do if stress delays your period

If you suspect that stress is the cause of your delayed period, there are several lifestyle changes you can make. Firstly, it is important to identify the possible causes of your stress and understand the level of stress you’re under. 

Keeping a journal is one way to do this. Talking to a therapist is another. Meditation, yoga, and exercise are common methods that many people find helpful. In some cases, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be recommended.

A few ways to get your period back on track

Getting your period back on track might be possible by eliminating the unhealthy stressors in your life. If that’s not possible, learning and adopting new coping strategies might work. 

If you have experienced delayed periods in the past, it can be quite helpful to track your moods, changes in diet, new medication, or big life events. This will help you better identify what some of your stressors are. The Flo app can help you with this.

Here are a few ways to reduce stress and get your period back on track:

 

Make time to relax

The best way to reduce stress is to relax. Meditation, exercise, journaling, coloring books, art, and knitting are all ways to relax. Some, all, or even none of these may work for you, but figuring out what you enjoy for relaxation will make it easier for you to develop and follow through with a plan for relaxing when you are stressed out.

Cut back on caffeine and alcohol

Both alcohol and caffeine can increase cortisol levels, so it’s recommended that you reduce your intake of both of these when dealing with major life changes, going through a rough patch, or nearing your menstrual cycle. Instead, you might try decaffeinated beverages or herbal teas that are known to have calming effects, such as chamomile or lavender.

Prioritize healthy sleep

Getting better sleep is often one of the best ways to overcome stress. Often, we focus on the quantity of sleep, but quality is also important. Most people need about 7–9 hours of sleep to really refresh themselves. Sticking to a sleep schedule and routine can help improve your quality of sleep. 

Avoiding screens for a few hours before you go to bed, wearing a sleep mask, and using a white noise machine can all make falling asleep and staying asleep easier. This will allow the body to fall into a proper sleep rhythm which can lower the chance of insomnia.

How to prevent stress from delaying your period

The first step in preventing stress from delaying your period is to understand what’s causing your stress and how much stress you can manage. You may not always be able to avoid stress, but you can develop healthy ways to cope with it. Tracking your cycle and any changes you experience in your moods will make it easier to identify any issues that may arise so you can better understand why your period is late. 

While stress (physical, emotional, or nutritional) is a common cause for a late period, it is just one of many potential reasons for a delay in menstruation. Pregnancy, hormonal birth control, and health problems like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also make your period late. 

Sometimes the stress of worrying about a potential unintended pregnancy can make your period late. Taking a pregnancy test to find out if you are pregnant can reduce this stress. If your period is late, and you’re experiencing symptoms like unwanted hair growth, headaches, weight gain, and difficulty sleeping, you may want to see a health care provider to rule out PCOS, which is a treatable condition.  

Tracking your mood, life events, and symptoms in an app like Flo can help you gain perspective on your level of stress, and taking simple measures like exercising or making time for meditation can help you get your period back on track.

References


“Hypothalamic Amenorrhea.” UpToDate,
www.uptodate.com/contents/functional-hypothalamic-amenorrhea-pathophysiology-and-clinical-manifestations.

“Stopped or Missed Periods.” NHS Choices, NHS, Aug. 2019,
www.nhs.uk/conditions/stopped-or-missed-periods.

Robert L. Spencer, Ph.D., and Kent E. Hutchison, Ph.D. “Alcohol, Aging, and the Stress Response.” National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Vol. 23, No. 4, 1999,
https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh33-4/272-283.pdf.

“Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 29 Aug. 2017, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439.

Lovallo WR; Whitsett TL; al’Absi M; Sung BH; Vincent AS; Wilson MF; “Caffeine Stimulation of Cortisol Secretion across the Waking Hours in Relation to Caffeine Intake Levels. ” Psychosomatic Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine,
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16204431.

History of updates

Current version
(03 February 2023)

Reviewed by Dr. Andrei Marhol, General practitioner, medical advisor, Flo Health Inc., Lithuania

Published
(03 March 2019)

Three stages of stress

Stress is one of the normal states of the body, as it is associated with an increase in adaptive mechanisms. Stress is an essential part of life. Stress reactions phylogenetically helped a person to cope with difficulties, therefore, in this aspect, stress reactions are useful. However, when stress has a vivid expression and a prolonged manifestation, in this case it causes harm to human health.

Selye observations

Hans Selye is considered to be the founder of the theory of biological stress. In his research, Selye observed that the body adapts to external stressors in terms of a biological model that attempts to restore and maintain internal balance. In its attempt to maintain homeostasis, the body uses a hormonal response that directly combats the stressor.

Three phases of the stress response

1. Stage of anxiety

During the alarm response stage, a distress signal is sent to a part of the brain called the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus ensures the release of hormones called glucocorticoids.

Glucocorticoids trigger the release of adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline gives a person a boost of energy: the heart rate increases, blood pressure rises, blood sugar also rises. These physiological changes are regulated by a part of the human autonomic nervous system called the sympathetic branch.

The adrenal glands begin to actively produce an increased amount of cortisol and are in a state of hyperfunction. This condition can be confirmed by using a pattern of changes in the hormonal profile of saliva, which will be the following indicators: elevated cortisol levels / normal DHEA levels.

2. Resistance stage

During the resistance stage, the body tries to counteract the physiological changes that occurred during the alarm stage. The resistance stage is regulated by a part of the autonomic nervous system called the parasympathetic.

The parasympathetic nervous system is trying to bring the body back to normal: the amount of cortisol produced decreases, heart rate and blood pressure begin to return to normal. The level of body resistance is much higher than usual. At this stage, a balanced expenditure of adaptation resources is carried out.

If the stressful situation ends, the body returns to its normal state during the resistance phase. However, if the stressor remains, the body remains on guard to fight its manifestations.

The adrenals adapt to this stage already using a mechanism called “pregnenolone hijack”. Pregnenolone is a cholesterol metabolite and is the precursor chemical for the production of both cortisol and sex hormones, including testosterone. When the metabolism of pregnenolone changes, the level of testosterone produced in the body decreases. At this stage, the pattern of the hormonal profile in saliva will be represented by the following indicators: elevated cortisol/low DHEA.

3. Exhaustion stage

In this stage, stress persists for a long period. The body begins to lose the ability to deal with the stressor and reduce its harmful effects, as all adaptive capacity is depleted. The exhaustion stage can lead to stress overload and health problems if not addressed immediately.

At this stage, the adrenal glands are no longer able to adapt to stress and have exhausted their functionality. Initially, salivary hormonal profiles will show normal cortisol/low DHEA levels, or cortisol levels indicative of hyperfunction and reduced function will be combined with normal DHEA levels). When the adrenal glands have exhausted their capacity, will be determined: low cortisol / low DHEA.

If stress continues, the cofactors needed to produce cortisol are depleted, causing the body to break the pregnenolone bypass mechanism and switch back to producing DHEA. This pattern would be low cortisol/normal DHEA.

Stress hormones .

Adrenaline : regulates heart rate;

regulates the flow of air into the lungs;

affects the diameter of blood vessels and bronchi.

Cortisol : increases blood sugar;

suppresses the immune system;

speeds up metabolism.

The most important hormones that form the stress response are adrenaline and norepinephrine . They are synthesized by the sympathetic nervous system. Another important class of stress-response hormones are called glucocorticoids, of which hormone 9 is best known.0003 cortisol . Cortisol helps the body cope with stress. Elevated levels of cortisol can be associated not only with a clear danger to humans, but also with some changes in living conditions that the body perceives as a danger. Sometimes the best of intentions, such as exercising, “healthy” eating, can lead to a nervous breakdown. But before that, there was chronic stress that was ignored. Excessive physical activity, lack of quality nutrition (diet, malnutrition), lack of sleep, alcohol abuse, endocrine disorders can lead to distress (“bad stress.”

A group of glucocorticoid hormones produced by the adrenal glands and their action is often similar to that of adrenaline. Adrenaline begins to act within a few seconds, and glucocorticoids maintain its action from several minutes to several hours. Hormone control is in the area of ​​​​responsibility of the brain.

During stress, the pancreas begins to produce the hormone glucagon. A cocktail of glucocorticoids, glucagon, and secretions from the sympathetic nervous system raises blood glucose levels. Glucose provides the energy needed to respond to stress. Other hormones are also activated. The pituitary gland produces prolactin, which, among other effects, contributes to the suppression of reproductive function during stress. The pituitary gland and brain also produce a special class of endogenous morphine-like substances, endorphins and enkephalins, which, among other things, dull the sensation of pain. Finally, the pituitary gland produces vasopressin, a fluid-regulating hormone that plays an important role in the cardiovascular response to stress. Vasopressin maintains water homeostasis within the body, which is essential for life.

In response to stress, some glands are activated, and various hormonal systems are inhibited during stress. The secretion of various hormones of the reproductive system, such as estrogen, progesterone and testosterone, is reduced. The production of hormones associated with growth function (such as growth hormone) is also suppressed, as is the production of insulin, a pancreatic hormone that normally helps the body store energy to use later.

These scientific facts speak of a direct connection between the emotional state and diseases such as diabetes, reproductive system disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and various addictions.

In today’s world, people face a huge number of stressful situations every day. Any of them can be the last straw and provoke depression. Knowing how stress is treated is necessary: ​​psychotherapy, physical activity, relaxation, healthy sleep and proper nutrition. Cultivate the spirit so as not to be afraid of mental, physical and material pain, learn to earn good money, go in for sports, be healthy!

Leading laboratory assistant of the department
of functional diagnostics Malakhovskaya S.N.

Selye’s three stages of stress: anxiety, resistance, exhaustion

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  • Stress

General information

Stress is one of the normal states of the body, as it is associated with an increase in adaptive mechanisms. Stress is an essential part of life. Stress reactions phylogenetically helped a person to cope with difficulties, therefore, in this aspect, stress reactions are useful. However, when stress has a vivid expression and a prolonged manifestation, in this case it causes harm to human health.

Types of stress

According to the type of impact, stress is systemic and mental. Systemic stress reflects the body’s response to injury, inflammation, infection, and so on. Mental stress first causes changes in the psycho-emotional sphere, and then manifests itself at the biological level.

Selye’s observations

Hans Selye is considered the founder of the theory of biological stress. Hans Selye’s model of the general adaptation syndrome provides a clear biological explanation for how the body reacts and adapts to stress.

In his research, Selye observed that the body adapts to external stressors in terms of a biological model that attempts to restore and maintain internal balance. In its attempt to maintain homeostasis, the body uses a hormonal response that directly combats the stressor. The body’s struggle against stress is the main theme of the general adaptation syndrome.

Another observation that Selye found was that stress responses have their limits. The body’s limited supply of energy to adapt to a stressful environment is depleted when the body is constantly exposed to a stressor.

Three phases of the stress response

General Adaptation Syndrome is a model that consists of three elements or phases that describe the body’s response to stress:

called the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus ensures the release of hormones called glucocorticoids.

Glucocorticoids trigger the release of adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline gives a person a boost of energy: the heart rate increases, blood pressure rises, blood sugar also rises. These physiological changes are regulated by a part of the human autonomic nervous system called the sympathetic branch.

The adrenal glands begin to actively produce an increased amount of cortisol and are in a state of hyperfunction. This condition can be confirmed by using a pattern of changes in the hormonal profile of saliva, which will be the following indicators: elevated cortisol levels / normal DHEA levels.

2. Resistance Stage

During the resistance stage, the body attempts to counteract the physiological changes that occurred during the alarm stage. The resistance stage is regulated by a part of the autonomic nervous system called the parasympathetic.

The parasympathetic nervous system is trying to bring the body back to normal: the amount of cortisol produced decreases, heart rate and blood pressure begin to return to normal. The level of body resistance is much higher than usual. At this stage, a balanced expenditure of adaptation resources is carried out.

If the stressful situation ends, the body returns to its normal state during the resistance stage. However, if the stressor remains, the body remains on guard to fight its manifestations.

The adrenal glands adapt to this stage, already using a mechanism called “pregnenolone capture”. Pregnenolone is a cholesterol metabolite and is the precursor chemical for the production of both cortisol and sex hormones, including testosterone.