Which is the first stage of the stress reaction?

• A. Alarm Reaction
• B. Exhaustion
• C. Resistance
• D. Recovery

Answer: (A)

The first stage of the stress reaction is Alarm, where the body detects a stressor and immediately activates the fight-or-flight response. The brain signals the sympathetic nervous system and the adrenal medulla releases adrenaline and noradrenaline, quickly increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose availability for rapid energy. Pupils dilate, respiration speeds up, muscles tense, and mental alertness rises to prepare you to respond.

If the stress continues, the body enters the next phase of Resistance, aiming to cope with ongoing demands, followed by Exhaustion if resources become depleted. Recovery or rest phases aren’t the initial response but part of returning to balance after the stressful period.