You might be feeling pressure from your friends, other people, or society as a whole through movies, music or advertising to use drugs. Saying no to drugs when people around you are using them can be tough, however it's the way to go Sometimes the easiest way to fight pressure is to be honest and simply say no. By making excuses, you can create an opportunity for others to try and convince you or add pressure. Here are some ways you can refuse to take the plunge:
Say “no”
Having the courage to say “no” can be tough, but, it can also feel great to stick with what you believe in. By calmly explaining to people why you don’t want to use drugs or drink, you may earn respect from others. It's the easiest but some forget to try it. |
Give a Reason, Fact or Excuse
The excuse needs to get you away from the person or situation. Practice an excuse so that you won’t hesitate and will sound confident. Have a code word to use with your parents. Text them the word and have them call to say you need to come home. “My mom just called. Sorry..I gotta go. Something’s going on at home”. “My parents would ground me for life” “I forgot that I have a doctor’s appointment this afternoon” “I already lost my phone privileges last week. If they find me doing this stuff I will not be able to go anywhere for a month!” |
Use Humor
Sometimes, the people pressuring you might stop asking if you would like to take speed with them, if you try to brush it off in a funny way, even if what you say may not be entirely true. “No thanks. This stuff stunts my growth. I want to be tall to play ball.” “Man, I need all the brain cells I can get. No thanks.” “Pot makes you fat, stupid and gives you yellow teeth..I’ll pass.” |
Strength in numbers
The truth is simple. If you surround yourself with friends that make good choices then you will too. The opposite is true as well. One of your most important choices you can make is the choice of your friends. Choose to hang out with non-users. |