Peer pressure is recognized as one of the most important factor in initiation of any drug use including alcohol and tobacco.
Following tips can be helpful to deal with pear pressure
- What is your stand: Think about "where you stand on issues like drugs, alcohol and sex"
- Preparation is important: Think before "how you want to respond and behave in situations where these things come up"
- Your choices are your business: Nobody should have to justify a decision not to take drugs. Whether you have a strong personal commitment, or just don't want it this time
- Say no firmly but clearly: Having the strength to say “no” can be hard. However, it also feels good to stick with
what you believe in - Try humor: If peer try to persuade you, humor can be an effective way to deal with the situation
- Remain calm: Explain to people in a calm way ‘why you don’t want to be part of something.’ It may earn
you respect from others - Knowing risk involved: Finding out about the different drugs, from the effects to the risks involved, can help
you resist pressure. As your understanding grows, so will your confidence - Most of us worry about what other people think of us: You’re not the only one worrying about what other people think of you. Nobody likes to stand out from the crowd for the wrong reasons. Try to focus on your own opinion of yourself—in the end, that’s all that matters.
- Peer pressure is often a way for people to seek approval for their own behavior: Do you really want to get involved to help justify someone else’s drug use?
Best of luck dear teens!!