May 30, 2020 11:00:00

What is physical contact as an alternative to physical contact in an era where we need to build bonds and create mental health and secure social distance?

Due to the epidemic of the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19), the chances of having physical contact such as hugs (hugs) are decreasing. Regarding such physical contact, a research team at the University of Victoria, Australia, explained that 'physical contact has the effect of improving mental health'. While COVID-19 has become prevalent and people have to refrain from physical contact, they list actions that can replace physical contact.

Miss hugs? Touch forms bonds and boosts immune systems. Here's how to cope without it during coronavirus.

https://theconversation.com/miss-hugs-touch-forms-bonds-and-boosts-immune-systems-heres-how-to-cope-without-it-during-coronavirus-137612

According to four psychologists such as Michaela Pascoe of the University of Victoria, physical contact releases hormones and transmitters that help reduce stress. The representative is oxytocin, a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Oxytocin is a substance produced by hugging, touching, orgasm, etc., and research results have reported that it may enhance 'generosity' and 'trust'. Oxytocin is also called an ' affection hormone ' based on the study that it is related to affective actions such as physical contact between parents and children.

Oxytocin is not the only one involved in physical contact. It has been found that the stress hormone cortisol is reduced in both infants and mothers when the infant is held by the mother.

In addition, the neurotransmitter

dopamine , which is associated with fun activities, and serotonin , a hormone that leads to motivation and euphoria, are also released by physical contact. Since lowering dopamine levels is associated with mental problems such as schizophrenia, depression, and drug addiction, and lowering serotonin levels is associated with depression and suicide, it is not possible to stabilize the amount of these substances in the brain. Important for mental health.

In addition, it has been found that reducing physical contact causes various problems. A study of children in Romanian orphanages found that children with less positive physical contact during early childhood had a delay in cognitive development and development, with a delay of 11 years. However, the result is that it lasts. On pre-school children of France and the United States research on and adolescent boys and girls study According to the little children of the physical contact has been suggested that it is likely to cause aggressive behavior.

As mentioned above, physical contact is important for mental health. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has encouraged us to stay social, and we are no longer able to make physical contact.

In order to maintain mental health in such a situation, the research team advised, 'If possible, make physical contact between family members.' 'Pet' is recommended for those who do not live with their family. It

has been found that interacting with a pet has an effect similar to physical contact with a person.

The research team advised people to take a different approach to those who 'live alone and do not have pets.' According to the research team, 'Keep 7 to 9 hours of sleep a day', 'Keep balanced nutrition intake', 'Keep social connection', 'Exercise regularly', 'Spend outdoors and trust' It is said that if you spend time paying attention to things such as talking about anxiety with people to manage stress and “do not use dangerous drugs”, you will be mentally healthy.