Which phase of response helps the body maintain high performance when facing stress?

The phase of response that helps the body maintain high performance when facing stress is the resistance phase. During this stage, the body has already recognized a stressor and has adapted to it. This adaptation allows for sustained energy, enabling the individual to handle the stressor more effectively over a longer period. The resistance phase involves a range of physiological processes that elevate the body's capability to cope, including hormonal adjustments, increased heart rate, and enhanced metabolism. This phase is crucial, as it allows individuals to perform at a higher level until the stress can be resolved or managed effectively.

In contrast, the other options represent different phases of the body's response to stress. The alarm phase is the initial reaction to the stressor, where the body mobilizes resources for fight-or-flight responses. exhaustion refers to a state that occurs when stress is prolonged and the body's resources are depleted, leading to decreased performance and health issues. The recovery phase occurs after stress is removed, allowing the body to return to homeostasis, but it does not assist in maintaining high performance during the stress itself. Therefore, the resistance phase is distinctly recognized for its function in enabling ongoing performance despite the presence of stress.