 Do you often feel a strong longing for physical affection? If so, you might be experiencing touch starvation. Touch starvation, also known as skin hunger, is a real phenomenon that can affect anyone, as described by psychologists like Matthew Hertenstein. In this video, we want to help you to spot the symptoms of touch starvation so you can understand that you're not just being navy. By becoming more aware of these signs, you can take the necessary steps to address your need for touch, improve your overall well-being, and nurture healthier relationships. Increased feelings of loneliness and isolation Are you constantly feeling lonely and disconnected from others? Even when you're surrounded by friends and family, do you still feel a sense of loneliness and disconnection? It can be a puzzling and unsettling feeling, leaving you questioning why you feel this way despite being in the presence of people who genuinely care about you. This could be an indication that you're experiencing touch starvation. Human touch, a psychologist Tiffany Field from the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami has discovered, is an incredibly powerful way to create connections and build a sense of belonging. The absence of physical affection, such as hugs or gentle touches, can intensify feelings of isolation and make it difficult to feel emotionally connected to those around you. Heightened sensitivity to touch Do you react intensely to casual physical contact, such as a hug or a pat on the back? Victor yourself at a social gathering, observing friends and acquaintances, casually engaging in friendly touches, like hugs and gentle pats. Do you find yourself experiencing a sudden surge of emotions or an overwhelming desire to be included in these interactions? When you're touch-starved, it's not uncommon for your body to become more sensitive to even the slightest physical contact. Dr. Corey Floyd, a communication professor at the University of Arizona, who researches affection, explains that this heightened sensitivity can manifest as a longing for touch or an intense reaction to casual physical contact, like when someone holds your hand or when they wrap their arms around your shoulder to make you feel you're not alone. Emotional imbalance and mood swings Did you know that physical touch releases oxytocin, a hormone that promotes bonding and reduces stress? When you're going through a rough day, feeling stressed and longing for comfort, but not having the physical connection you need to soothe your emotions, it can be just heartening and overwhelming. It's important to remember that it's perfectly normal to experience these feelings and that addressing your touch-starvation can significantly improve your emotional well-being. Touch-starvation can take a toll on your emotional well-being, sometimes leading to mood swings, irritability, and even increased anxiety or depression. Helen Fisher, an anthropologist and expert on love and relationships, explains that when we lack touch, our oxytocin levels might decrease, which can throw our emotional balance off. Craving non-intimate touch Have you been yearning for non-intimate forms of touch lately? When you notice a group of friends laughing and playing and nudging each other, do you find yourself craving to be a part of this interaction? Not just for the camaraderie, but also for the comforting non-intimate touch that comes with it. This longing for connection is completely natural and understandable. Perhaps you noticed that you've been hugging your friends more often, or have a sudden urge to schedule a massage. This might be a sign that your touch-starved and craving physical connection and affection in your life. Dr. Daniel Goldman, a psychologist and author of Social Intelligence, explains that humans are wired to seek touch, as it is a fundamental way of communicating empathy and creating connections. So when you're touch-starved, your body might try to compensate by seeking non-sexual touch experiences. Remember, you're not alone in craving touch. It's a natural human need. You can reach out to your loved ones for more physical connection and consider activities like dance classes or massages to experience touch in a supportive environment. By taking these steps, you'll improve your well-being, strengthen bonds, and create new connections. Rest assured, addressing touch starvation can bring positive change to your life. Can you relate to any of these signs? Feel free to share your experiences below. Also, if you find this helpful, please share it with your family and friends who can benefit from it. Thank you for being here.