Stress and mental health are becoming key topics of conversation in the workplace.
Many people experience mental and physical problems for several reasons, both at the workplace and at home.
Today, we will discuss the responses to stress, specifically the “fight or flight” response.
A brief recap on stress
The Stress Management Society describes stress as a bridge, “when a bridge carries too much weight, it will eventually collapse.” They also state “It is possible to see the warning signs before this happens, the bridge would bow, buckle and creak….”
When this “bridge collapses” it can cause mental and emotional breakdown which may present with physical symptoms.
When we feel stress it can cause us various health issues and it affects our metabolism, memory, and immune system.
The flight or fight response
When we experience something that is causing us mental or physical threat or fear our body responds (acute stress response) in what is called the “fight or flight” response.
This is a way for our body to respond and is referred to as “automatic physiological,” our body’s way to respond and to prepare our body to either deal with it or flee from the perceived threat.
The body will respond and release hormones to trigger the pituitary and adrenal glands, which in turn triggers the release of hormones called; adrenaline, cortisol, noradrenaline and catecholamines to the sympathetic nervous system, a network of nerves that helps your body activate its fight or flight response.
The parasympathetic nervous system then assists our body to go back to its calm state once the threat has passed.
Flight is a function and instinct that can save us in a life-threatening event we may find ourselves.
How does flight or fight make us feel?
- Agitated
- Aggressive
- Can affect our relationship with people around us, in a negative way
- Increased heart rate
- Get cold or sweat
- “Freeze” or reactive immobility when you become frozen and prepare for the next move.
When could this happen at work?
Example of when this could happen is; a presentation, job interview, deadline to meet, or an important meeting.
Fight or flight is a natural response and reaction and is something you cannot control. It may last between 20-30 minutes but may only last a few seconds.
Here at Corporate Personal Wellbeing our expert team are always on hand to help you understand and deal with your mental health.
Mental health services including Proactive Employee Assistance Program, mental health therapy and training are all available to assist you and your team.