Cuddling against loneliness: New therapy conquers Hamburg!

Cuddling against loneliness: New therapy conquers Hamburg!

In the middle of a global increase in loneliness, more and more people are experiencing the need for human proximity and touch. In Hamburg, the cuddly therapist Alexandra Ueberschär focuses on these needs. It helps clients who suffer from loneliness or mental challenges by offering cuddly therapy. This form of therapy does not aim at sexuality, but promotes human interaction and emotional exchange.

overform has completed an apprenticeship as a nurse and further training as a multilevel system coach. Before each cuddly session, you have a therapeutic conversation to find out the individual causes of loneliness and lack of contact. Patients often report experiences such as separations or abuse who have contributed to their emotional state.

cuddle as supportive therapy

The number of meetings required varies; In acute mourning phases, many clients notice an improvement after just a few sessions. However, a challenge is that the therapy must be paid privately, since health insurance companies do not cover the costs. The awareness of loneliness and lack of contact has increased particularly through the Covid 19 pandemic. Dr. Tobias Heinrich, a psychological psychotherapist in Hamburg, confirms the increase in these problems, especially in large cities.

Loneliness and lack of contact are not just emotional states. You can also have physiological consequences of how the hormone oxytocin is documented. This so -called cuddly hormone is released by touch and has been proven to have positive effects on social binding and stress reduction. Studies show that cuddling against depression can be helpful because it stimulates the release of oxytocin and thus increases general well -being.

scientific backgrounds and studies

A current study by the University Hospital Bonn examines the effects of oxytocin on loneliness. The research team has found that this hormone can reduce the feeling of loneliness at short notice. In the study, 78 participants who felt lonely received oxytocin in the form of a nasal spray or a placebo. After five weekly group therapy sessions, the participants who received the hormone reported about a reduced acute feeling of loneliness.

The study was under the direction of Dr. Jana Lieberz and Prof. Dr. Dirk Scheele carried out and also includes cooperations with various universities. It shows that Oxytocin not only has short -term effects on the feeling of loneliness, but can also improve the positive bond within the group. However, it should be noted that professional help for depression and other psychological problems are still crucial.

The connection between touch and well -being is evident. People who suffer from "skin hunger" often feel a strong need for hugs and touches. A conscious positive touch in everyday life can help alleviate this deficiency. Despite the positive effects that cuddles offers, it is not a full replacement therapy, but should be seen as a supportive measure. Clients are recommended to take advantage of other forms of support in order to overcome deeper emotional challenges.

in a world in which loneliness is a growing problem, cuddly therapy offers an alternative way to meet the deep needs for closeness and emotional exchange. A rethink in society about the value of touch seems more necessary than ever.