under pressure

It’s easy to think you’re the only one who has not experimented with drugs, but the reality is that most young people don’t take drugs.

Prepare yourself now by thinking through how you want to respond and behave when someone offers you cocaine.  It may help to share your thoughts and feelings with someone you trust.

Say ‘No’ firmly but clearly, and without making a big deal about it. If they try to persuade you, don’t feel like you have to change your mind.

If you’re finding it hard to be yourself within your group, take a step back, and think about whether it’s time to find a new crowd and friends to hang out with.

You’re not alone! It’s easy to think you’re the only one who has not experimented with drugs. The reality is that most people your age  don’t take drugs and you’re in the majority.

Talk to someone: FRANK, a parent or sibling, or a close friend who isn’t offering you drugs.  If someone is offering you drugs, try to understand their reasons for doing so. That should help you find the right way to tell them you don’t want to do drugs. 

Drugs can have a bad effect on your mental and physical health and your education. Think carefully about your own reasons for not wanting to do them.  Find an explanation that you’re comfortable with and are happy to share with others.  Stick to your guns. If you keep saying ’No’ – people will stop asking.  Try to avoid people and places where you are likely to be offered drugs.

Read more about dealing with pressure.