How does the amygdala react during stress?

The amygdala plays a crucial role in the processing of emotions, particularly fear and stress responses. When an individual experiences a stressor, the amygdala is activated and signals the hypothalamus. This interaction initiates the stress response, commonly known as the "fight or flight" response.

Upon activation, the amygdala sends projections to the hypothalamus, which then stimulates the release of hormones, including adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the pituitary gland. This, in turn, leads to the release of cortisol from the adrenal glands, preparing the body to respond to the perceived threat. This function is essential for survival, as it primes various physiological systems to either confront the danger or escape.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the function of the amygdala in the context of stress. The amygdala does not calm the body; rather, it is part of the system that prepares the body for action. It does not slow down brain activity, as its activation leads to increased alertness and readiness to respond. Additionally, while it is involved in emotional processing, it does not promote pleasure and reward in this context; those functions are associated more with other brain regions like the nucleus