How to Deal with Adult Peer Pressure and Alcohol

Resisting peer pressure to drink alcohol sounds like a theme for an after-school special. However, you can feel this kind of pressure at any age.

A survey by the education charity Drinkaware found that 29% of drinkers aged 35 to 54 agreed that being pressured to use alcohol was common. On the plus side, the experience decreases with age and tends to become subtler.

Still, the impact remains significant. In this same age group, 28% said they sometimes drank more than they originally intended in order to keep up with their friends.

You can enjoy an active social life with little or no alcohol. Try these suggestions when you feel like others are encouraging you to drink more than you want.

Dealing With Peer Pressure As An Adult

Deciding whether to drink is up to you; no explanation is necessary. On the other hand, you should take steps that make you feel more comfortable.

1. Know the numbers.

Just knowing that you’re not alone can boost your confidence. Gallup Poll data shows that 40% of Americans don’t drink, and those who do are consuming less.

2. Rehearse your response.

It’s okay to turn down a drink with or without giving a reason. Practice independently or with a friend, so you’ll sound assured when you’re out in public.

3. Track your drinks.

You’re less likely to overindulge if you set a goal in advance. Decide how many drinks you’ll have, and count them as you go. A standard serving is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of spirits.

4. Sip mocktails.

Some partygoers feel less conspicuous if they have a full glass in their hand. Seltzer with lime looks like a cocktail.

5. Offer to drive.

It’s obvious why you stay sober when you’re the designated driver. You’ll keep your friends safe, and some bars will give you free soft drinks.

6. Talk it over.

What if you feel like family members and friends aren’t respecting your decision? They might change their behavior if you let them know it’s important to you.

7. Leave the room.

On the other hand, it may be time to walk away. It’s okay to avoid situations that tempt you to drink.

Other Suggestions For Socializing Without Alcohol

As you grow older, pressure to drink often has more to do with seeing others imbibing rather than direct criticism. Consider activities where alcohol won’t be present.

1. Go camping.

Spend time outdoors. Buy a national park pass and research destinations. If you have less time, take a walk or pack a picnic.

2. Bring your kids.

Search for family-friendly events. Visit a science center or watch a puppet show. Take your kids ice skating.

3. Volunteer your services.

Take your mind off alcohol, and focus on what you can do for your community. Contact a volunteer clearinghouse to learn more about opportunities in your area. Join group projects where you can make new friends.

4. Take a class.

Learn something new. Check the calendar at your neighborhood library and museums. Audit classes at a nearby university or take a course online.

5. Throw a party. You decide what to serve when you’re the host. Invite friends over for a pancake breakfast or a dinner with Indian food and mango lassis.

6. Seek support.

Peer pressure can be a positive influence too. Depending on your circumstances, consider Alcoholics Anonymous or a nondrinking social group.

When it comes to drinking, peer pressure isn’t just for teenagers. Remember that you’re in charge of your relationship with alcohol. Trust your feelings, and care for your mental and physical well-being.

Learn more about your health online when you read the rest of our information here about: What is Alcoholism? and also download the free health report available there!

Warren Tattersall has been a full time nutritional consultant for over a decade and works with people all over the world to help them improve their health, increase their personal energy levels and to use supplements to assist with diet related health issues.

Just send him a note on the form here - Contact Us - to request a personal no obligation one-on-one consultation with Warren

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