CNN reports a recent study has uncovered how helpful a hug can be during a difficult or stressful time.<br />According to researchers, a quality hug can make a drastic difference for women.<br />For men, on the other hand, hugs maybe aren't doing as much.<br />The study, published in the journal 'PLOS One,' analyzed 76 people's responses to stress following a hug from a romantic partner.<br />When women in the study received a hug, researchers say they showed decreased amounts of cortisol, a stress hormone.<br />Men in the study did not show any changes in cortisol levels.<br />Affection from the one you love is known to release neurotransmitters called oxytocin.<br />Oxytocin is often referred to as the "love hormone."<br />Still, experts say affection between humans is dynamic and often differ vastly from person to person.<br />"It’s important to remember that there is individual variation in how people respond to hugging." Kory Floyd, professor of communication at The University of Arizona, via CNN<br />"For some, a hug is a welcome expression of warmth that can alleviate stress, reduce pain, <br />and promote intimacy." Kory Floyd, professor of communication at The University of Arizona, via CNN<br />"For others, hugging feels invasive or unnatural and can even elevate stress, rather than alleviate it." Kory Floyd, professor of communication at The University of Arizona, via CNN
