What should a diver do if they feel overwhelmed during a dive?

When a diver feels overwhelmed during a dive, signaling their buddy and ascending if necessary is the most appropriate course of action. This approach aligns with safe diving practices and emphasizes the importance of teamwork and communication underwater. Feeling overwhelmed can stem from various factors such as anxiety, equipment issues, or environmental conditions, and addressing these feelings quickly is crucial for safety.

By signaling their buddy, the diver can communicate their distress and ensure that both divers are aware of the situation. Ascending, especially if done in a controlled manner, can help alleviate feelings of anxiety that can develop in challenging underwater environments. The buddy system is a fundamental part of diving safety, and using this support system allows divers to effectively manage stress and enhance their safety.

The other options presented do not prioritize safety or the well-being of the diver. Ignoring feelings of overwhelm can lead to panic and potentially dangerous situations. Attempting to solve the problem alone ignores the critical importance of buddied support and can exacerbate the diver's situation. Diving deeper when overwhelmed is counterintuitive, as it can increase stress and limit escape options. Therefore, the best action when feeling overwhelmed is to communicate with a buddy and consider ascending if conditions warrant it.