The Stress Response

When we have a stressful experience, our body sends a message to receptors in our brain that tells it to release hormones such as adrenalin, epinephrine, vasopressin, etc. They act similar to a sprinkler system in that the stimulus (heat) triggers the valve to release water on the flames. In our body, the stimulus (stress) prepares the body for danger. Called “fight or flight syndrome”, this term describes the complex reactions that take place in stressful or threatening situations. The response is automatic. These hormones are targeted to specific organs in our body and cause specific responses such as racing heart, increased perspiration, increased rate of breathing, and many others. If we are continually under a lot of stress, these target organs can be over worked, and stress-related disease may occur.

What is Critical Incident Stress (CIS)?

A state of heightened cognitive, physical, emotional, and behavioral arousal that accompanies the crisis. Experiencing a critical incident, triggers this elevated arousal. If a person or group does not manage CIS and resolve it appropriately, it may lead to one or more significant problems such as physical illnesses, insecurity, chronic anxiety, rage reactions, marital or relationship discord, abuse of alcohol and other substances, withdrawal from others or even psychological disorders such as Acute Stress Disorder, panic attacks, depression or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).