Which of the following best describes coping strategies?

Coping strategies are best described as actions taken to deal with stress and challenges. They encompass a variety of techniques and methods that individuals employ to manage the psychological and emotional impact of stressors. This proactive approach involves identifying stressors and implementing solutions or practices to alleviate their effects, ultimately promoting better mental health.

Using coping strategies can include techniques like mindfulness, exercise, talking to friends or professionals, engaging in hobbies, and developing problem-solving skills. These actions help individuals not only to endure difficult situations but also to thrive despite them, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.

The other options describe approaches that are not adaptive or constructive. For instance, methods for increasing stress or activities that promote negative thinking do the opposite of what coping strategies aim to achieve—they exacerbate feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. Similarly, responses that involve avoiding issues can lead to unresolved problems and may increase stress in the long term, rather than effectively managing it. Thus, focusing on positive and constructive actions is essential for maintaining mental wellness.