Saying No
Peer pressure is one of the most common reasons why young people try drugs and/or alcohol. Some people have a hard time saying no, even if they do not want to drink or do drugs, and they do not know what to say when put on the spot and can't think of an effective way to get out of the situation. Here are some suggestions for talking your way out.
No, thanks
No way - my family would kill me
I don't want to, but thanks anyway
I'm not interested
I don't want to and I can't believe you want to get into that kind of stuff
No, let's do something else
I'm allergic to that stuff
Are you crazy?
That's not cool
Sorry, not into that
I don't think so, I hear the side effects are brutal
My mind is made up, I don't want to talk about it anymore
If I have to smoke and do drugs to be your friend, I guess I'll have to find a new friend
Unfortunately, Some people don't take no for an answer. If you are continually getting pressured, walk away. You know the right decision is not to drink and do drugs. Arrange with your parents or someone you trust to be your emergency backup where they will come and get you when you need to exit a situation. Agree in advance on a "reason" you will give if your friends ask why you are leaving. You don't owe an explanation when you are leaving a potentially dangerous environment, but if having a realistic "excuse" makes it easier so people don't question you, then it's worth considering.
If you are feeling tempted towards drugs or alcohol or are getting pressured to try them, there is help. You can talk to your parents, a trusted friend, school councelor, teacher, or Contact Usand talk to us. Your school councellor is always available to listen and help as well. You can also check out our Getting Helppage for a list of helpful resources to contact.
