In this article, the author discusses the rise of the recent 'Probably Needed a Hug' trend on TikTok, in which users share their mental health challenges and coping strategies in a comedic format. Research suggests that, as virtual connection continues to become the norm in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, people are missing the stress relief of physical contact, particularly hugging. 

Professor Michael Banissy speaks about the mounting evidence for the importance of touch in our daily lives. He asserts that "touch is something that affects us all – yet it is more powerful and complex than we might first think."