By Sian Green, Clinical Psychologist on 5FM
The Power of Human Connection
In a fast-paced, increasingly digital world, human connection is often reduced to messages, emails, and brief interactions. Yet one of the most powerful forms of connection remains something incredibly simple: a hug.
In my recent radio interview on 5 Lunch for International Hug Day, I explored the psychology behind touch and why it plays such a critical role in emotional wellbeing, mental health, and human development.
What Happens in the Brain When We Hug?
Physical touch, particularly a hug, activates the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which helps us feel calm, safe, and regulated. It also stimulates the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the “bonding or love hormone.”
This process: Reduces stress and anxiety, lowers heart rate and cortisol levels, promotes feelings of trust and safety, and enhances emotional connection.
In therapeutic terms, a hug can act as a form of co-regulation, helping individuals move from a state of distress to one of calm.
Why We Need Touch More Than Ever
Since the COVID-19 pandemic and the increase of the digital world we live in, many individuals have experienced prolonged periods of physical isolation. While we adapted to virtual connection, the absence of touch has had real psychological consequences.
Clients often present with: Increased anxiety and emotional dysregulation, feelings of loneliness and disconnection, and a heightened stress response. Safe, appropriate connection can play an important role in restoring emotional balance.
The Role of Touch in Relationships
Touch is not just comforting; but can be relational signals of safety and belonging. In families, friendships, and romantic relationships, physical affection helps maintain emotional bonds.
The Importance of Boundaries and Consent
While touch is powerful, any touch creating connection is important to be attuned and consensual. Not everyone experiences touch in the same way, and personal boundaries should always be respected. Healthy touch is: Safe and appropriate, respectful of individual comfort levels (and past lived experience around touch), offered, not imposed. Teaching children and adults about consent in physical affection is a crucial part of emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Connection Beyond Words
Human beings are wired for connection. While communication is often verbal, some of the most powerful moments of connection happen without words. One of the key messages I shared on International Hug Day is that meaningful connection does not require grand gestures. Small, consistent acts of care can have a profound cumulative effect on mental health.
A hug, when offered safely and meaningfully, can: Regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, reduce stress, and foster a deep sense of belonging.
Here is a link to the talk: https://omny.fm/shows/5-lunch/5l-international-hug-day-sian-green
