Q&A for How to Say No to Drugs and Alcohol

Return to Full Article

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How do you politely say no to a drink?
    Tala Johartchi, PsyD
    Clinical Psychologist
    Dr. Tala Johartchi is a Clinical Psychologist based in the Los Angeles, California metro area. With expertise and advanced training in Evidence-Based Practices and therapeutic/behavioral frameworks, Dr. Johartchi specializes in working with individuals, couples, and families experiencing Substance Disorders, Love Addiction and Codependency, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, as well as common co-occurring disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, and Relational/Attachment difficulties. She earned an MA and PsyD in Clinical Psychology from The American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, San Francisco.
    Clinical Psychologist
    Expert Answer
    Explain why you aren't drinking anymore. You might frame it as a health decision, a lifestyle change, or even a personal preference.
  • Question
    Can you have fun at parties without alcohol?
    Tala Johartchi, PsyD
    Clinical Psychologist
    Dr. Tala Johartchi is a Clinical Psychologist based in the Los Angeles, California metro area. With expertise and advanced training in Evidence-Based Practices and therapeutic/behavioral frameworks, Dr. Johartchi specializes in working with individuals, couples, and families experiencing Substance Disorders, Love Addiction and Codependency, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, as well as common co-occurring disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, and Relational/Attachment difficulties. She earned an MA and PsyD in Clinical Psychology from The American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, San Francisco.
    Clinical Psychologist
    Expert Answer
    Absolutely! You can always order a drink without any alcohol in it, or play a drinking game with a non-alcoholic beverage. For instance, you and your friends could take "shots" of water.
  • Question
    How can I stop thinking about alcohol?
    Community Answer
    You can try asking for help on the internet and change your focus. Try eating healthy foods, drinking tons of water, and exercising regularly. Avoid friends and situations that remind you of alcohol.
  • Question
    What do I do if someone is offering me drugs?
    Community Answer
    Just say no firmly, and most people will get the hint you don't want what they are offering. If not, get yourself out of that situation quickly.
  • Question
    My parents forced me to take drugs and drink alcohol because they were disowning me. They knew the consequences of their actions but still didn't care. Help me please?
    Community Answer
    Call the police. Forcing someone, especially a child, to consume drugs or alcohol is illegal. If you can't get to a phone to call the police, just tell an adult, like a teacher, counselor, a friend's parent, etc. This is definitely abuse. Tell someone you need help.
  • Question
    How can I deal with peer pressure?
    Community Answer
    Keep the right kind of company and you won't have to deal with it. Avoid people who try to pressure you to do anything you're not comfortable with. If someone does try to pressure you, stand up for yourself and say you're just not interested. If you see a friend succumb to peer pressure, call them on it.
  • Question
    How can I make my friends stop drinking alcohol?
    Community Answer
    Share research with them about how many people have died, the bad effects of drinking alcohol, and remind them that it will hurt them physically, emotionally and mentally for a long period of their life.
  • Question
    Is taking drugs illegal in the UK?
    Community Answer
    Only certain drugs are illegal no matter what, and others are only illegal without a prescription.
  • Question
    How can I help a friend who is addicted to drugs?
    Community Answer
    If you're a kid/teen, talk to an adult, like a teacher, guidance counselor, or parent. This is the only way to get them the help that they need. If you're an adult, tell your friend you're worried about them, and if they're open to it, help them look into rehab facilities in your area. If they're an adult and they're not willing to get help, however, there's not much you can do about it.
Ask a Question

      Return to Full Article