Key points

Hugs lower stress, boost oxytocin, and strengthen emotional bonds.

Men face cultural barriers that make affection and grief expression hard.

Male friendships deepen when touch normalizes care and connection.

Hugging friends helps fight loneliness and builds resilient support.

Friends Having a Conversation Source: Cedric Fauntleroy / Pexels

In November 2024, I had the privilege of speaking on a panel at the inaugural Grieftastic Book Fair, an event that brought together authors and practitioners who work in the space of grief and loss. The panel I joined focused on something I had honestly never heard of until I was invited: disenfranchised loss.

Disenfranchised loss refers to grief that isn’t acknowledged or validated by society, which makes it harder for people to op

See Full Page