What Emotion Triggers Adrenaline?

When you feel scared or excited, your body can send out a rush of adrenaline, like when you’re about to jump into a pool.

Imagine you're playing hide and seek, and you hear someone counting, 1, 2, 3... You freeze. Your heart starts pounding. That’s because your brain thinks something big is about to happen! It tells your body to get ready for action by sending out adrenaline, which helps you run fast or stay still without being seen.

• Fear is like when you see a big dog running toward you, your brain says, “Get ready to run or hide!”
• Excitement feels like getting ready for ice cream on a hot day, your body gets all worked up because something fun is coming!

Adrenaline makes your heart beat faster and gives you more energy, just like when you’re about to play your favorite game. It’s your body's way of saying “I’m ready!”