Go Your Own Way

Sometimes we all need help navigating through life, with all of its different paths. You always have the power to choose what to do in different situations where alcohol is involved. Here are suggestions for how to handle these situations. All actions we take have consequences, that can be seen either in the near future or much later in our lives. Choosing not to drink alcohol is the choice you want to make. When you stand up for yourself, you also stand up for your dignity. Protect who you are and go your own way. 

Scroll down for some helpful tips on what to do when alcohol is present.

What to Do...

…if your friends are drinking and want you to drink too. You don’t want to drink, but it can be hard to say no. You know the dangers of drinking are great. It’s illegal and could get you into a lot of trouble, not just with your parents but also with your school and the police. You could get kicked off your school’s team and have trouble with the law. It’s also dangerous to your health. When confronted by friends, it’s important to stick up for yourself and say you don’t want to drink. Make eye contact with your friend and tell them how you feel. Be honest. You never know, you may be helping others in your group of friends too by leading the way.

…if a friend of yours is intoxicated or passed out. One way to tell if your friend is drunk is if they are getting loud and their speech is slurred. They may be staggering around, or they may be inappropriate, not behaving like themselves. They may be vomiting. It’s important that you support your friend and try to get them help. Alcohol poisoning can be serious. Don’t assume that they can just sleep it off. Their judgment is impaired, so it’s up to you take charge of the situation. If your friend is not responsive, call an adult. If there isn’t an adult around, call 911. You don’t know how serious your friend’s condition is, so it’s best to be cautious and make sure they’re okay. Kids can die of respiratory failure, and a friend can save a life by calling 911. 

…if someone you know is driving. If they’re drinking, and you think there’s a possibility they might drive, talk to an adult and let them know what’s going on. If the person still insists on driving and gets into their car, call 911. The stakes are too high to not get involved.

Alternatives to Drinking

What do you love to do? Whether it’s sports, music, video games, writing, working on cars, fishing, fashion or art, get involved in what really makes you you. And when you include your friends, you’ll be setting a good example for them to also do things that don’t involve alcohol. ZeroProof is a place where you can celebrate who you are by showing what you do. It’s also a place to share with friends. When you use your power to choose not to drink, you choose to be a truer version of yourself and safeguard against the dangers of alcohol.