Stresslaxing is a phenomenon where individuals experience stress while trying to relax, such as during vacations or time off. This ironic situation occurs when the effort to relax becomes a stressor itself. Generative AI and large language models (LLMs) can potentially help individuals cope with stresslaxing by providing advisement and coaching on relaxation techniques.
Research suggests that maximal efforts to plan for a vacation or holiday can lead to stress, as well as stress during the time off. It is recommended to evenly distribute stress between the planning and the time off, rather than trying to avoid stress during the planning phase or expecting to be stress-free during the time off.
Generative AI can be used in various ways to aid in dealing with stresslaxing, such as detecting stresslaxing, providing mental health advisement, offloading tasks that trigger stress, simulating stresslaxing, and offering other techniques. ChatGPT, a popular generative AI app, can provide definitions, tips, and engage in dialogues to help individuals cope with stresslaxing. However, it is important to remember that generative AI is not a silver bullet and should be used as an additional tool in dealing with stresslaxing.
