Party Smarter: Tips for Teens
Make decisions you can live with!
- Be informed and get the facts! Your friends opinions are not facts.
- Think about your choices. Weigh all possible results and the least amount of risks.
- Decide what is right for you!
- Remember that YOU DON’T have to USE ALCOHOL OR DRUGS!
- If there is alcohol at a party, it is ok to leave.
- Keep your social environment alcohol & drug free.
You may think that “everyone drinks” but that’s not actually true — most do not. Almost ¾ of Upper Valley Teens (or 72%) do not currently drink alcohol. 82% of Upper Valley Teens do not smoke/use marijuana.
Make choices that are more interesting and substance free.
- Get artistic – express yourself through music, painting, writing, etc.
- Take up a sport – It’s a great way to have fun and build a strong body.
- Join a club or a group – get together with people at school or in your community who share your interests.
- Volunteer – Help brighten the lives of others.
- Exercise your mind – learn more about topics that interest you.
Take pride in who you are and refuse to use.
You can’t always avoid people who want you to use drugs or alcohol.
Know how to say NO. Say no politely.
Use humor. Offer a better idea. Use an excuse. Switch topics or just walk away without saying anything. Practice with friends and family. Here are some ways to say NO to using alcohol, tobacco or other drugs:
- “No thanks.”
- “Are you kidding/ My mom knows when I’m even thinking about doing something wrong!”
- “No thanks, I’m going for pizza. Want to come? “
- “I can’t. I’ve got basketball practice in 15 minutes.”
- “No thanks, drinking and/or smoking isn’t really my thing.”
- “No, I am good, thanks.”
- “Nah, I am driving home.”
- “No thanks. I need all the brain cells I’ve got!”
When you are at a party or gathering where there is alcohol or other drugs:
- Trust your own judgement. Don’t let peer pressure sway you into doing anything you don’t want to do.
- Know what you are drinking and don’t let others get a drink for you.
- Plan your transportation before you head out.
- Avoid potentially violent situations.
- Keep your wits about you and stay close to friends you trust.
- Don’t get into a car with a driver who has been drinking or using drugs.
- Leave for somewhere safe if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable at a venue or party.
- If you choose to use alcohol or other drugs: Remember that your judgement may be impaired if you’ve been drinking or taking drugs – don’t take risks you may you may regret.