All of the following are ways to effectively reduce stress except ___________.

• A. Seeking social support from friends and family
• B. Engaging in regular physical exercise
• C. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing
• D. Increasing the use of alcohol and drugs

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of the problem, which is about identifying effective and ineffective ways to reduce stress.
2. Step 2: Review each option given and consider how it relates to stress reduction based on psychological research and principles.
3. Step 3: Recognize that seeking social support, engaging in physical exercise, and practicing relaxation techniques are all well-established, healthy methods to reduce stress.
4. Step 4: Identify that increasing the use of alcohol and drugs is generally considered a maladaptive coping strategy that can worsen stress and lead to additional problems.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the option which does not effectively reduce stress is 'Increasing the use of alcohol and drugs,' as it is counterproductive to managing stress healthily.