People who use defense mechanisms, overeat, or abuse alcohol are relying on strategies to reduce stress.

I believe the answer is: Maladaptive

Maladaptive strategies refer to the strategies that is used to cope with the stress or anxiety with minimal efforts. This strategies often do not address the core issues that causing the stress, but rather intended to seek a quick shortcut to run away from the core problems.

the branch of biology that deals with the normal functions of living organisms and their parts.

the way in which a living organism or bodily part functions.