Totally hear you! My first time going to an AA meeting felt very strange because there were two things going on. First, I "got it" that these are people who are in similar situations to me that maybe our loved ones don't really understand. But second, I don't know you from Adam, I just met you, don't touch me like we're best friends! The hugging thing is totally weird, and you're not weird to be uncomfortable with it. I found another group. No hugging - woo hoo! Have you tried finding other groups in your area? Or even non-secular ones? Sometimes it takes a bit to find the right group for you. Could be an option?