There was an article a couple of days ago in a British newspaper which
may cheer you. It is long so I will quote selected bits.

Cuddles help babies to beat adult illness

The more newborn babies are cuddled, the less likely they will be to
suffer from heart disease, mental illness and diabetes in adult life, a
new study shows.
The research, which will be seized on by the breastfeeding lobby, has
great implications for the nurture of infants.
Evidence that high levels of physical contact in the early days after
birth can halve the chance of developing stress-related diseases in
later life has been uncovered by scientists studying the behaviour of
rats.
The researchers say the metabolism of rats is similar to humans and that
they would be "stunned" if humans did not react in the same way. They
bilieve the findings could be the key to better health and will present
their findings in Britain next year.
Previous studies have shown how physical contact in the days after birth
can promote growth of premature babies and stengthen emotional
development. But no other study has shown the long-term health benefits
of kisses and cuddles and other close physical contact in the early days
of life.
We think this shows the importance of touching, cuddles and
breastfeeding and rough-and-tumble play. People must not just pay lip-
service to being affectionate to their child but show real physical
contact.

The research is being done at the McGill University in Montreal. If
anyone wants the full piece let me know - it is too long to reproduce
here. It does not include any references, and I am not sure I like being
referred to as the 'breastfeeding lobby'! Still, a report to gladden the
heart.
--
Carolyn Westcott