Prevention Resource Center Region 5 of Texas

There’s lots of ways to “Refuse to Use” and say “No!” when offered a cigarette, joint, alcohol, or other drugs. Even though you know that alcohol, tobacco and other drugs are illegal and harmful to your health, it can be tough to refuse to use when you’re worried about looking geeky or losing your friends over it. Here are some of our suggestions.

"The Way"

"An Example"

1. Don’t beat around the bush.	Be direct, say “No!”
2. Change the subject and they’ll forget they even offered you drugs.	"Do you want to hear my new CD?”
3. Make it into a joke.	“You know I’ve got a crazy reputation…you don’t even want to see me high!”
4. Make an excuse.	“No way, I’ve got to get up for work tomorrow and I don’t want to be late and lose my job, you know I’m saving money to buy my own car.”
5. Blame not using on your parents, they won’t mind.	“My Mom is always up waiting for me, she’ll know the minute I walk in.”
6. Speak with your feet---leave!	“Hey I’m thirsty, I’m gonna go get a drink. Later.”

So, what do YOU do? How do YOU tell others “No!”? Tell us the answer, we want to know….email us your responses and your clever ways to refuse alcohol, tobacco and/or other drugs. We’d like to post your responses that work so we can pass them onto others your age who are struggling with how to say “No!”.

This web site is loaded with lots of info about the negative effects of various drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. Read up, stay informed and educate yourself on knowing the truth about these substances.

If you need help or know someone who does, confidential help is a phone call away. Call The Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council at 1-936-634-5753 or toll-free at 1-800-445-8562.