It's difficult for anyone to say no to alcohol, but it's incredibly challenging for people trying to quit or reduce their drinking. Up to a degree, you can avoid venues where alcohol is provided. However, you may be offered a drink by someone you know, or you may be in a public setting with people you don't know. You don't always want to explain your connection with alcohol or why you don't drink in these situations, especially if you think they won't understand.
A casual, polite response can help you avoid being questioned further, insulting your host, feeling humiliated, or revealing a personal tale you aren't free to discuss. Listed below are reasons that you can say to stop someone from letting you drink alcohol if you ever find yourself in that scenario.
You're at your limit.
If you routinely drink with the same individuals, impose restrictions on your drinking, and set a limit based on your blood alcohol content, this is the best reaction. Others will eventually figure out that you will only drink a specific number of drinks in a particular amount of time, and they will be able to share a drink with you within those parameters. But if you feel like you're on the verge of losing control, admitting to an alcohol and drug rehabilitation centre would be your safest choice.
Many people who have alcohol problems want to consume in a more controlled manner. Some obnoxious people may try to persuade you to have more. Maintain your position. Don't give in to the pressure. After all, you have the right to set and stick to your limit based on scientific data rather than your or anybody else's feelings.
You still need to drive back home.
Use this as your final trump card because this is the greatest reason of all time. For this reason, some people who are quitting alcohol offer to be the designated driver. Which means they want to spend time with their friends but don't want to drink. This answer serves as excellent role modeling for others and reinforces the critical message of staying sober behind the wheel.
Anyone who tries to persuade you to drink after you've given this response isn't worth your time—the risks of driving when intoxicated are well known. Driving and alcohol are never a good idea. Even if some people continue drinking while claiming to be "under the influence," they are nonetheless impaired even if they are technically correct.
You don't drink anymore.
This response necessitates a tremendous amount of bravery and is typically met with demands for an explanation. It should, in theory, put an end to any further discussion. However, you should be prepared for teasing or questions about whether or not you have a drinking issue.
Saying to people that you don't drink anymore is the best response for anyone serious about recovering from alcoholism or putting a stop to peer pressure to drink. People will ultimately embrace your transformation, and you may even serve as a role model for your peers.
Everyone has their own reasons why they drink and why they don't. This is why it's up to you to decide how open about your condition you want to be. Always keep in mind that drinking is a personal decision. Even if you're the only one who doesn't drink, you can still have a wonderful time with your pals as long as you're all okay with each other's choices.