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

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.

Correct Answer: critical

Step-by-Step Explanation:

Let's analyze the sentence containing blank (E):

"Seeking professional help from a therapist or counsellor may also be _________________ (E) in some cases."

1. Contextual Analysis: The passage discusses effective ways to manage stress, especially when dealing with severe or chronic stress. Seeking professional assistance from a therapist or counselor is a crucial, important, or key measure for individuals struggling with high stress levels.

2. Evaluating the Options:

• critical: Means extremely important, crucial, or essential. This fits the context perfectly as professional help can be crucial for managing severe stress.

• ineffective: Means not producing any significant or desired effect. This contradicts the positive tone of recommending professional help.

• trivial: Means of little value or importance, which does not fit the seriousness of seeking help from a therapist.

• redundant: Means unnecessary or superfluous, which implies professional help isn't needed, fitting poorly in this context.

Therefore, the word critical best completes blank (E) meaningfully and logically.