First, know that you’re not alone. A lot of teens feel pressured to drink or do drugs when they really don’t want to. And, most do find ways to say no. The number of teens who drink or do drugs is dropping, according to recent studies.

You could try a straightforward approach. Just say, “I don’t feel like drinking, smoking, drugging, tonight.”

If “just say no” isn’t working for you, try these responses.

"My parents would kill me if they found out, and they always find out!"
"No, I’m not into that stuff."
"I tried it once, and I hate the taste."
"I tried it once and ended up throwing up on everything!"
"Drinking or drugging would make me feel out of control, and I hate that."

Be firm, but friendly. And you might have to say the same thing a few times for it to sink in. If they keep pressuring, you can try changing the subject. "Did you watch the basketball game last night?" or "Hey, do you know if that concert’s sold out?"

If all else fails, go home. Just say, “I gotta go.” Even if you lose this “friend,” it’s better than being pushed into something that you don’t want and can hurt you.

It’s also a good idea to stay away from situations where there’s drugs and alcohol. We know you don’t want to skip every party, but if it’s going to be drenched in alcohol and drugs, maybe you should hook up with a friend who’d rather hit the music scene, the mall or the movies, than drink or do drugs.