Stress response (fight-or-flight response)

The stress response is the set of physical and emotional changes the human body makes in response to a threat or stress. It sometimes is called the "fight-or-flight" response.

In a stressful situation, the body releases chemicals that trigger:

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
• Rapid breathing.
• Increased sweating.
• A sudden rush of strength.
• Slowed digestion.
• Dilated pupils.