By Dr Joanne Stuart
16.01.25
Psychologist
What happens during fight or flight?
The "fight or flight" response is an evolutionary mechanism in the brain that helps humans survive. This response developed significantly during hunter-gatherer times when humans lived in more dangerous environments. It allows individuals to become significantly stronger and faster in a split second—an advantage when fighting off a wild animal or escaping danger. Stories of people demonstrating superhuman strength to save their loved ones illustrate the "fight or flight" response in action. We speak to a leading consultant psychologist who explains what happens during this response.
