You should always_____ to avoid and deal with stress as divers enter the water.

To avoid and deal with stress as divers enter the water, it is important to integrate multiple strategies that enhance safety and comfort. Keeping in constant contact with your buddy fosters communication and support, which can significantly reduce anxiety and improve situational awareness. Using the easiest methods of entry and descent minimizes the physical and mental strain that can contribute to stress, particularly for less experienced divers or in challenging water conditions. Monitoring instruments is crucial for ensuring safety; it allows divers to stay informed about their depth, air supply, and other critical factors that can influence their underwater experience.

By recognizing that all these actions contribute to effective stress management and overall safety, the answer that encapsulates this comprehensive approach is the best choice. Each action complements the others, creating a well-rounded strategy for managing stress effectively as divers prepare to enter the water.