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Saying No to Alcohol and Drugs

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Saying No to Alcohol and Drugs

Overview

Alcohol is part of many traditions and is often served at parties and other functions. And although many drugs are illegal or legal only with a prescription, people may offer them to you.

If you're in a situation where someone is offering you alcohol or drugs, try this:

  1. Look the person in the eye.
  2. In a firm voice, tell the person you don't want to drink or use drugs. Say something like:
    • "No, I'm sorry, but I don't use...."
    • "No, I'm really trying to stay clean."
    • "No, I'm trying to cut back."
  3. Give a reason why you don't want to drink or use drugs. Say something like:
    • "It's bad for my health."
    • "I could lose my housing."
    • "I have trouble when I use...."
  4. Ask the person not to ask you to drink or use drugs again. Say something like:
    • "Hey, I said I'm trying to stay clean, so don't ask me again."
    • "I told you I don't use anymore, so stop asking."
    • "I'm trying really hard to stay clean, so please don't ask me to use anymore."

If you notice that someone does have drugs, leave the area.

Credits

Current as of: August 2, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Peter Monti PhD - Alcohol and Addiction
Christine R. Maldonado PhD - Behavioral Health

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

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