Which part of the autonomic nervous system prepares the body for stressful situations?

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for preparing the body to respond to stressful situations, often referred to as the "fight or flight" response. When faced with a threat, the sympathetic nervous system triggers various physiological changes: it increases heart rate, dilates bronchial passages, and suppresses non-essential functions like digestion. These changes work together to enhance the body's ability to react quickly and effectively to challenging situations.

In contrast, the parasympathetic nervous system generally promotes a state of rest and relaxation, supporting functions that occur during calm moments, such as digestion and energy conservation. The somatic nervous system is primarily involved with voluntary movements and the control of skeletal muscles, while the central nervous system processes information and coordinates activities. Therefore, the role of the sympathetic nervous system is unique in its immediate focus on preparing the body for a heightened state of alertness and energy expenditure in response to stress.