Hug an Addict or Alcoholic Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Addiction

The seventh of February is annually recognised as Hug an Addict or Alcoholic Day in the United States. The purpose of this day is to de-stigmatize addiction and rehabilitation. Addicts and strangers celebrate the day by learning how addiction can be treated. Numerous addicts are stigmatised and shunned, which is alarming given the importance of friendship and acceptance on their route to recovery. With the right resources and compassion, alcoholics and drug addicts can overcome their addictions and regain their footing. Learn how you may contribute to this worthy cause by participating in Hug an Alcoholic or Addict Day.

HISTORY OF HUG AN ADDICT OR ALCOHOLIC DAY

We celebrate Hug an Addict or Alcoholic Day for a reason. Hugs are known to boost the oxytocin system in the brain; this may be beneficial for persons with substance use disorders. Close physical touch, such as a hug, can assist addicts in re-engaging with society and combating their addiction.

In 1956, the American Medical Association officially classified alcoholism as a disorder. It is the abuse or over consumption of alcoholic beverages. Although alcohol was formally recognised as a health issue in the given year, there is a history of alcohol-related issues. Some include notable figures such as Alexander the Great, Vincent van Gogh, and Ernest Hemingway. Furthermore, it is thought that healing or recovery from such conditions has occurred since 1750. It has been discovered that Native American communities had sobriety circles. In the meantime, the current rehabilitation approach is founded on the 1935 foundation established by Alcoholics Anonymous. This group continues to aid in the rehabilitation of alcoholics.

Numerous attempts are made to aid in the rehabilitation of alcoholics. Oxytocin, however, has shown to prevent alcohol and other substances from activating the dopamine reward pathway. This indicates that when the addict experiences less pleasure, they are less inclined to rely on the narcotic. The increased supply of oxytocin helps regulate negative behaviours linked with withdrawal and long-term repercussions of substance usage, such as anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. Oxytocin is so effective that it can even prevent relapses. Hugging and offering words of encouragement are the most effective ways to administer oxytocin to addicts. Any form of close physical contact is incredibly beneficial for making addicts feel loved and accepted. Hug an Addict or Alcoholic Day serves as a reminder that we can make someone’s struggle easier through simple actions.

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5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ADDICTION

Approximately 60% of recovering addicts will relapse within the first year.

Approximately 15% of all deaths globally are attributable to substance abuse.

Australia has a rate as high as 73 percent.

The annual global cost of addictive substances approaches $740 billion.

Approximately fifty percent of addicts have family relatives who were also addicts at one stage.

HUG AN ADDICT OR ALCOHOLIC DAY DATES

Year	Date	Day
2023	February 7	Tuesday
2024	February 7	Wednesday
2025	February 7	Friday
2026	February 7	Saturday
2027	February 7	Sunday