A stressful environment refers to a situation or condition that causes mental or emotional tension and can potentially lead to negative physiological and psychological effects. It is characterized by high levels of demand, pressure, or threat.
Related terms
Fight-or-flight response: This term refers to the body's automatic physiological reaction to a perceived threat or danger, preparing the individual for either fighting against it or fleeing from it.
GAS is a three-stage model that describes the body's response to stress as alarm (initial reaction), resistance (adaptation), and exhaustion (depletion of resources).
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis: The HPA axis involves interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands. It plays a key role in regulating stress responses by releasing hormones like cortisol.