If you’re offered drugs, say no in the way that works best FOR YOU. Saying no is a great opportunity to make it clear that you can THINK FOR YOURSELF. Use a refusal message that’s straightforward and make the fact clear that drugs are not a part of your life. What would you do or say in a risky situation? Here are some suggestions.

I like you, but I don’t like drugs.

It makes me uncomfortable to be around drugs.

I’d be happy to help you (go to a trusted adult), but I can’t be around you when you use drugs.

My dad (mom, grandparent, coach) would kill me if he/she knew I was around drugs. (blame it on an adult – they won’t mind!!)

No, thanks. It’s not for me.

Taking drugs is not for me.

My parents would kill me.

I don’t do drugs. I could get kicked off the team if anyone found out.

Why would I want to mess up a good thing? Taking drugs is JUST NOT ME.

I like my life. Why do I want to do drugs and miss experiencing it on my own terms?

I like who I am, and I don’t want or need to alter that (become something I’m not).

You hear too many horror stories about what can happen – it’s not worth being out of control.

I like that my life now is all about choices. I don’t want to make a bad one that can take all my other choices away.

I’ve earned my parents (teachers, coaches) trust and respect – no way am I going to throw that away. I’ve worked too hard.

I want to help make my community drug free.

I want to stay healthy. No smoking, drinking or drugs for me.

I never take medicines or drugs on my own – you never know what can happen or how your body will react.

I know drugs won’t solve my problems. I talk to an adult I can trust instead.

I am learning how to say “no” to drugs in MY OWN WAY.

I know that using drugs and alcohol to “forget” problems or to get out of my own head isn’t smart. It’s like putting a band-aid on a broken leg. I talk to those who care about me instead, and address my problems, instead of creating new ones by experimenting with drugs and alcohol to numb the pain.

(Girls) I can’t smoke pot…it gives you the munchies. I want to fit into my new jeans tomorrow…

(Guys) My dad and I have a deal. I don’t do drugs, and he won't take back the car keys.

If I try that, I might like it… And I can't afford an expensive drug habit…
My boss does random drug testing. I can't afford to lose my job – I’m saving for a car.

I was born with a heart condition. If I take that, I could have a heart attack and die.

I can't do drugs. I'm trying to get an athletic scholarship, and I have to keep my body healthy.

My parents do random drug testing. I'm not going to risk it.

My mom is like psychic about this stuff…if I take drugs, she'll just know.

I can't take that. I'm your designated driver.

Of course, you can also always go for the laugh, too. Just realize that you still need to make your point – that drugs are not, nor will they ever be, for you.

I can't do drugs. I'm not naturally brilliant…I need to keep all the brain cells I have.

If I mix drugs with my anti-psychotic medication, I might accidentally kill you.

I can't do drugs. If my parents found out, they might die…and they're still earning my inheritance…

I can't take drugs. Drugs are deadly. If I take drugs, my parents might kill me.

Smoking pot makes you fat, stupid and smelly…I'll pass…