Imagine this: you are about to go to bed, so you go about your night routine, and doomscroll to end the day off in a familiar tone. But just as you are about to close your eyes to finally sleep, you realise you have had a total of zero hugs today. While it may not seem like a big deal to you, some scientists suggest that you may just be physically, emotionally, and possibly even existentially doomed. 

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Well, not doomed exactly, but definitely hug-deprived. And that’s serious business. 

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While hugging can feel like an act necessary for just cute Instagram posts and awkward family reunions — it’s actually essential for human survival. Psychologist Virginia Satir once said, “We need four hugs a day for survival, eight for maintenance, and twelve for growth.” The secret to thriving is not just your 10-step skincare routine or a green smoothie, it’s a daily dose of human contact. 

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Why do hugs work like emotional multivitamins? Hugging someone releases what is called oxytocin, also known as the “cuddle hormone,” or for the more scientifically inclined, C₄₃H₆₆N₁₂O₁₂S₂. That also reads like something your cat walks over on your keyboard when he wants a hug. Oxytocin works towards reducing stress and even strengthening your immune system. Sure, eating kale might help you live longer. But hugging is indispensable to a long, happy life. 

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While it may not seem like it, not hugging someone regularly makes things start to fall apart. If you have ever felt inexplicably grumpy or anxious, or like you might fight someone over a burger that doesn’t taste right, those might be signs of hug withdrawal. Being touch deprived can increase your stress levels and weaken your immune system. It also makes you feel more lonely, which, according to science, is just as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. So although it might be surprising, a hug a day can help keep the doctor away. 

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How many hugs are you getting in a day? And are they enough?

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On an average, most people don’t even get four hugs a day, let alone the ideal amount of seven to twelve. In fact, in the modern world of digital intimacy, remote work, and the deeply ingrained “don’t-touch-me-until-I’ve-had-my-coffee” rule, there’s a good chance most of us are in a full-blown hug deficit. And that’s extremely tragic. 

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Luckily, it is entirely possible to turn this around right now. The first step is to go hug your best friend, your partner, your parents, or anyone you love. And then remember to hug someone you care about everyday. Finally, enjoy the oxytocin rush and a newfound appreciation for human connection. Next time you feel down, a good, old-fashioned embrace might be better than that energy drink. Your body will thank you. 

Spoiler alert: hugging tends to be a contagious act. People who get hugged will often hug you back. Before you know it, you will have started a full-on oxytocin revolution. Most importantly, don’t be worried about the awkwardness. It might help to remember that no one ever regrets a wholesome hug. 

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Go give someone a hug. The world could seriously use it.