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Preventing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace for Illinois Professionals, 2nd edition: Summary 37
Gastrointestinal System In the acute stage of stress, blood flow is diverted from the gastrointestinal system to muscles that need it as part of the flight-or-fight response. Digestion slows, intestinal blood vessels constrict, and peristalsis and intestinal tone decrease. Unrelieved or prolonged stress can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers or chronic constipation. Immune System Elevated adrenal hormonal levels during stress inhibit the body’s production of T lymphocytes, which are critical to the adequate response of the immune system. This can increase susceptibility to infection and other immune system–related diseases and disorders. Mental Health Issues Related to Stress Depression Approximately 50% of people who die by suicide have seen their primary care provider within the prior month, with only 20% seeking care from specialty mental health services. Of people with undiagnosed depression, 15% commit suicide. Flashbacks Memories of the harassment that are so acute the person believes the harassment is occurring now. During a flashback, it may be challenging to connect with reality. People may even feel as though the harasser is physically present. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder This is a trauma-related and stressor-related disorder. It can occur after experiencing or witnessing severe trauma such as sexual harassment. PTSD can range from mild to severe and affects all aspects of a person’s life. Self-harm Self-harm is the deliberate harming of oneself or self-injury that occurs when a person inflicts physical harm on herself.
All people experience stress at one time or another. The body responds to stress is the general adaptation syndrome (GAS), which has three phases. 1. Alarm : Alarm is the flight-or-fight response. The autonomic nervous system is activated, and there is an adrenaline surge. All body systems rally, and the body increases the energy needed to either flee from the stressor or confront it. 2. Resistance : The body works to regain homeostasis during the resistance. Coping and adaptation take place. Because the body cannot maintain the high energy levels of the alarm stage, it redirects the stress response to a manageable level. Resistance occurs with the assumption that the stressful circumstances are resolved or manageable. 3. Recovery or Exhaustion : The body recovers and regains homeostasis with the resolution or management of stressors. However, if the stress continues unabated, the body becomes exhausted, and the impact of elevated cortisol and other hormones begins to affect health negatively. Body Systems Responses to Stress Cardiovascular System Blood pressure rises, and hypertension may occur if the stress is long term. Blood vessels constrict, which makes it harder for blood to reach body systems and provide the nourishment tissues and organs require. LEARNING TIP!
Stress also leads to the release of cholesterol into the bloodstream. This can lead to atherosclerotic plaque buildup in the coronary arteries, which increases the risk of a heart attack.
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