What does acute stress activate in the body?

Acute stress activates the fight-or-flight response, which is a physiological reaction that occurs in response to perceived threats or emergencies. This response is primarily mediated by the autonomic nervous system, particularly through the sympathetic nervous system, and is characterized by the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and cortisol.

When acute stress is triggered, the body prepares for immediate action. This includes increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, rapid breathing, and heightened alertness. These physiological changes enable an individual to respond quickly to danger, either by fighting or fleeing from it. The fight-or-flight response prioritizes energy and resources to vital systems that need to be mobilized for survival, such as the muscles and brain, while other functions that are not immediately necessary may be downregulated.

In contrast, homeostatic regulation refers to the body’s ability to maintain stable internal conditions, which may not be directly involved during an acute stress response. Metabolic slowdown and long-term energy storage are more associated with chronic stress or states of rest, rather than the immediate, heightened state of arousal caused by acute stress. Therefore, the activation of the fight-or-flight response is the primary, correct choice regarding what acute stress triggers in the body.