Bad news: it's the flu season and, unfortunately, the current vaccine available may not be as effective as we'd like it to be. The good news is there's another treatment, and it's free.
It's a hug! A research conducted by a team of Carnegie Mellon University found out that those who received plenty of social support including hugs have a better immune system and have thus more ability to ward off infections or at least minimize their symptoms.
According to Dr. Sheldon Cohen, a psychologist who led the study, the connection between social support and immune system is tied to stress. When you're under a lot of stress, your immune system gets weaker, making you more susceptible to viruses and bacteria that may lead to infection. These include those that cause flu.
However, it's also well-known that a strong social support can significantly enhance the immune system and even improve the state of mind as it reduces or eliminates anxiety and depression.
To further prove this connection, at least to flu infection, the team conducted a survey participated by more than 350 healthy men and women. First they answered questionnaires that pertained to the social support they received. They also entertained phone interviews for about 14 days. The surveys covered two aspects: their perceived internal conflict and perceived social support through hugs.
Aside from answering the surveys, the participants were also exposed to the virus that causes common colds.
Upon analysis, they discovered that even if some of them had mentioned about conflicts, these became immaterial as long as they received more hugs, a kind of social support.
Moreover, those who had more of it showed fewer signs of the symptoms.
The researchers aren't sure what is in a hug that may have contributed to such a positive effect. One thing is for sure: a hug is good for your health.