Which parts of the nervous system are associated with General Adaptation Syndrome?

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) is a concept that describes the body's short-term and long-term reactions to stress. It involves several parts of the nervous system:

1. Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS): This is part of the autonomic nervous system and is responsible for the "fight or flight" response. During the initial alarm stage of GAS, the SNS is activated, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and energy availability.

2. Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS): Also part of the autonomic nervous system, the PNS helps to calm the body down after the stressor has passed, promoting the "rest and digest" functions.

3. Hypothalamus: This brain region plays a crucial role in the stress response by activating the pituitary gland and the adrenal medulla, which are involved in the release of stress hormones.

4. Pituitary Gland: Often referred to as the "master gland," it releases adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a key stress hormone.

5. Adrenal Glands: Located on top of the kidneys, these glands release adrenaline and cortisol, which help the body to manage stress by increasing energy supplies and suppressing non-essential functions.

These components work together to manage the body's response to stress through the stages of alarm, resistance, and exhaustion as described in the General Adaptation Syndrome model.