Which of the following words will fit in the given blank (B)?

The following passage contains 5 blanks. Choose the most appropriate word from the options given for each blank to make the passage meaningful.

In today's fast-paced world, stress has become an inevitable part of life. While some amount of stress is _________________ (A) for motivation and productivity, chronic stress can have negative effects on physical and mental health. It is important to ________________ (B) strategies to manage stress effectively. These may include regular exercise, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and spending time in nature. Social support from friends and family can also help ______________ (C) stress levels. Additionally, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet, getting adequate sleep, and avoiding _______________ (D) substances such as alcohol and tobacco can help in managing stress. Seeking professional help from a therapist or counsellor may also be _________________ (E) in some cases.

The correct answer is develop.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Analyze the Context of the Blank (B):
The sentence reads: "It is important to ________________ (B) strategies to manage stress effectively."
The context discusses ways to handle or manage stress, which involves creating, planning, or establishing effective techniques/strategies.

2. Evaluate the Given Options:
• apply: While one can "apply strategies", in English grammar when setting up an overall regimen or management plan to handle a life challenge like stress, the collocation "develop strategies" (meaning to design, formulate, or create) fits best in context, especially alongside "These may include...". However, grammatically and semantically, let's examine the options provided:
- apply: to put to use or execute.
- ignore: to disregard (contradicts "manage stress effectively").
- devour: to eat hungrily or consume destructively (irrelevant).
- develop: to elaborate, create, design, or grow (fits perfectly with creating strategies to manage stress).

3. Conclusion:
The verb "develop" correctly completes the phrase "develop strategies", which means to cultivate or formulate methods to manage stress effectively.