What is the primary function of the sympathetic nervous system during stress?

The primary function of the sympathetic nervous system during stress is to trigger the fight-or-flight response. This response is an evolutionary mechanism designed to prepare the body to either confront or flee from perceived threats. When the sympathetic nervous system is activated, a series of physiological changes occur: heart rate increases, blood pressure rises, respiratory rate accelerates, and energy stores are mobilized. This allows an individual to react swiftly and effectively in urgent situations.

In contrast, promoting relaxation and calmness aligns more closely with the functions of the parasympathetic nervous system, which works to conserve energy and restore the body after stress has passed. Enhancing cognitive processing and decision-making is often supported by the proper functioning of both the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, but during immediate stress, cognitive functions can be compromised by high anxiety levels. Lastly, improved digestive processes are typically affected negatively by the sympathetic nervous system's activation since the body prioritizes immediate survival over digestion during stress.