From the Research
No, you are likely not getting enough human touch from just medical appointments and physical therapy once a week. Most adults benefit from more frequent physical contact for optimal well-being. Consider seeking additional appropriate touch through massage therapy, handshakes, hugs from friends or family, or even getting a pet for tactile comfort. Touch is essential for human health as it releases oxytocin and reduces cortisol levels, helping to decrease stress, anxiety, and depression while improving immune function. Skin-to-skin contact activates pressure receptors that send signals to the vagus nerve, which is connected to multiple organs and can help regulate blood pressure and heart rate. If increasing human contact is difficult, self-massage, weighted blankets, or certain textured fabrics can provide some tactile stimulation, though these aren't complete substitutes for interpersonal touch.
Importance of Human Touch
Human touch has been shown to have numerous benefits for physical and mental health, including reducing pain, anxiety, and depression, and improving immune function 1. The use of touch in healthcare settings is complex and context-specific, but it is essential for effective and compassionate care 1.
Alternative Sources of Touch
If increasing human contact is challenging, alternative sources of touch can be considered. For example, animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has been shown to have positive effects on older adults, including reducing depression and improving mood 2, 3. AAT can be delivered in various settings, including hospitals and long-term care facilities, and can be tailored to individual needs and preferences.
Recommendations
Based on the available evidence, it is recommended that you seek additional sources of human touch beyond medical appointments and physical therapy. This can include:
- Massage therapy
- Handshakes or hugs from friends or family
- Getting a pet for tactile comfort
- Animal-assisted therapy (AAT)
- Self-massage or weighted blankets as a supplement to interpersonal touch
Overall, prioritizing human touch is essential for maintaining optimal physical and mental health, and there are various ways to incorporate more touch into your daily life.