The 4 Stress Responses Explained

Ever wonder why you get reactive with some people, stay busy when life feels overwhelming, shut down during conflict, or keep the peace even when you’re tired?

This guide breaks down the four stress responses — Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Fawn — with simple, relatable examples that help you understand how you show up in everyday moments.

Explore how your thoughts, reactions, emotions, and connections may respond when things feel uncertain, and learn why certain conversations, environments, or responsibilities ignite stronger reactions than others.

Whether you tend to:

• Get reactive

• Stay busy

• Pull away

• Keep the peace

…this guide helps you recognize those patterns with clarity and compassion.

It’s an easy, practical way to build self-awareness, understand your stress habits, and make sense of the moments that feel confusing or automatic.