Scenario 1: You’re at your best friend’s house for a sleepover. The plan was to order some pizza and watch a silly movie, but suddenly your friend announces that she knows where her parents keep the key to the liquor cabinet. “They won’t notice if we just take a few sips,” she says. You do not want to drink anything and feel very uncomfortable. Your friend asks what you would like to drink. Politely but firmly deny your friend’s offer, and ask for an alternative. You: You know, this isn’t really my thing. I’d rather just stick with Coke. Friend: You’ve never tried alcohol before, have you? How do you know it’s not your thing? You might really like it. C’mon, a little sip won’t hurt. State more firmly that you’re not interested. You don’t have to provide a direct answer to your friend’s question or any justification of your response. Suggest an alternative that both you and your friend can enjoy. You: No, I really don’t want to drink anything tonight. How about we go out for ice cream instead? Didn’t a new place open up nearby? Friend: Wow, you’re so boring. We can share a drink if you’re so worried. If your friend continues to insist, tell her clearly that you feel very uncomfortable and are going to leave unless she stops pushing you. If she doesn’t stop, leave. You: I already told you I don’t want a drink. That’s my final decision. I don’t feel comfortable hanging out with you if I have to drink, so I’ll leave. Scenario 2: Same as above, but instead of just you and your friend, there is a group of other people at the house who you don’t know really well. Everyone except you is onboard with trying a few drinks. After getting everyone else’s drinks, your friend turns expectantly towards you. Friend: So...you want beer or red wine? Politely deny the offer, and ask for an alternative. You: Neither for me. Do you have any Coke though? Friend: Don’t you want to have fun tonight? You’ll be the only one without a drink. Other person: What’s wrong? Are you allergic or something? In a larger group setting with people you don’t know as well, you may feel shy and uncomfortable about refusing the offer. If this is the case, try changing the subject and/or deflecting attention away from yourself. You: Hey, did anyone else feel like that quiz today was way over the top? I didn’t know the answers to half of the questions! Mrs. Smith must’ve been in a terrible mood or something. Other person: Don’t change the subject! Come on, you can’t be the only one not drinking. You’ll make us all look bad. Your friend: It’s Friday night. Don’t you want to have fun? Just have some beer; there’s not that much alcohol in one can of beer. If you are feeling increasingly intimidated, make an excuse to leave. Make sure your excuse is believable and won’t be viewed with suspicion. You: Oh my gosh, I totally forgot! I have to babysit for the Carson’s tonight. I’m so sorry I’ve got to run like this, but they’re going to be leaving by 7:30. I’ll see you guys tomorrow!