‘Probably Needed A Hug’ Trends On TikTok: What It Reveals About Us

There’s a new trend on TikTok involving the phrase “probably needed a hug.” This trend resonates with many people, just like a memorable line from the 1998 movie The Wedding Singer: “What I’m saying is all I really want is someone to hold me and tell me that everything is going to be all right.” Many TikTok users are sharing videos about moments they needed support but ended up experiencing something different instead. These videos often feature Adele’s song “Hometown Glory” in the background, highlighting the importance of a warm embrace.

Examples of the Trend

The videos under the hashtag #probablyneededahug showcase a wide range of creative interpretations. They reveal how people find comfort in various activities, including traveling, dancing, or simply shopping. For instance, one TikTok user, Probably needed a hug Chose to be a teacher instead because some kids needed it so much more, @theogsnail, posted a video featuring her pet bunny, showcasing a cute and comforting moment.

However, not all posts share joyful experiences. Some TikTokers express their feelings of needing a hug but instead show how they pretend everything is okay. For example, probably needed a hug, moved alone on the other side of the world instead. Some users even wrote phrases like “detached and learned to never need someone else instead,” showing how they cope with their feelings.

Why Hugs Matter

This trend clearly demonstrates that many people enjoy receiving hugs.Hugs foster a feeling of closeness and connection. When you hug someone, you share a moment of affection, which is often missing in our digital interactions. Hugs can lead to the release of oxytocin, often called the “cuddle hormone.” This hormone, produced in the hypothalamus and released into the bloodstream, helps promote feelings of happiness and comfort.

Research shows that hugging can also be beneficial for our physical and mental health. For instance, studies have found that people who receive more hugs tend to experience lower levels of stress, pain, and even illness. In one study published in Psychological Science, researchers discovered that those who reported getting more hugs experienced fewer respiratory problems. While hugs shouldn’t replace traditional health practices like vaccinations or handwashing, they do indicate how social support can impact our overall well-being.

Understanding Our Need for Hugs

The “probably needed a hug” trend raises an important question: How many people are actually getting the hugs they desire? Loneliness has become a significant issue in recent years. A report by former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy in 2022 highlighted that people feel increasingly disconnected from each other. This disconnect doesn’t refer to the number of social media followers but rather to the deep social connections we all need.

Many individuals may feel they lack true social support, leading them to suppress their longing for hugs or companionship. Suppression means consciously hiding feelings, while repression means doing it unconsciously, both of which can harm mental health over time. Ignoring these feelings can create larger problems in the future.

The Mind-Body Connection: How Meditation Enhances Physical Health

Conclusion

While the TikTok trend of “probably needed a hug” provides entertainment and relatable content, it also highlights a deeper societal issue. Many individuals are craving genuine human connection. Although fun activities and distractions can temporarily lift our spirits, nothing can replace the comfort of a real hug. As we share our experiences online, it’s essential to remember the importance of fostering real-life connections and being there for one another.