Talking to friends about not using substances can feel awkward—we get it. No one wants to seem “uncool” or like they’re making a big deal out of something. But here’s the truth: Standing up for what’s right takes real strength—and it matters.
Peer Pressure Is Real—But Your Voice Is Stronger
It’s totally normal to feel nervous saying “no” when everyone else seems to be going along with something. But being clear and confident in your choice to be substance-free until age 21 shows leadership, not weakness.
You don’t have to give a long explanation. The best answer is the simplest answer: No.
Want some tips?
- Ask yourself what you want for your future. Write down your goals. Ask yourself if using substances before your brain finishes developing will help you or harm you in reaching those goals.
- Practice what you’ll say if you do get offered substances. You can even rehearse with a trusted adult (it might feel awkward at first, but it helps).
- Stay true to yourself and your decision. Do not compromise on using substances underage.
- If your friends continue to pressure you, tell a trusted adult.
Bust the Myth: Not Everyone’s Doing It
There’s this idea that everyone is using substances underage—but that’s just not true. In fact, many teens are choosing to stay substance-free. According to Responsibility.org, most teens report they have never consumed alcohol. In fact, 80% of students in 8th grade have never consumed alcohol, along with 64% of 10th graders and 47% of 12th graders. So, the next time someone says, “Everybody’s doing it,” just know, that’s not true! Lots of teens are making smart, healthy choices every day.
Your Future Is Worth Protecting
When you stay substance-free, you’re protecting more than just your health—you’re protecting your future. Think future scholarships. Sports teams. College graduation. Jobs. Trust from the people who’ve got your back.
This isn’t just about saying no. It’s about saying YES to everything that’s ahead of you.
Back Each Other Up
There’s power in numbers. Start the conversation with your friends. Make a plan. Support each other. Be the friend who normalizes making smart choices.
The Power of You(th): Power to Take a Stand
Power of You(th) is a program from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) that’s all about giving middle and high school students the confidence to make smart, healthy choices, and to stick with them. We know peer pressure is real, but so is your power to say no to underage drinking and other substance use, and to never get in a car with an impaired driver.
You have more influence than you might think. That’s why Power of You(th), in partnership with Amica Insurance, encourages teens to look out for each other and speak up when it matters. Whether it’s saying no or helping a friend make a safer choice, your voice makes a difference.
Year-round, MADD staff and volunteers head into schools and youth organizations across the country to talk about the real-life risks of underage substance use and impaired driving.
The program includes hands-on activities, school visits, and family-friendly events designed to get conversations going about how to stay safe and how to support your friends in doing the same.
This generation has the power to create change. With the right info and support, you can help end impaired driving for good.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Here’s your challenge:
🎥 Watch this video created by one of your peers!!
📱Text a friend and let them know you’re choosing to stay substance-free.
📢 Post your commitment on social media, and follow and tag us @maddnational and our partner @amicainsurance
Be bold. Be smart. Be the reason that you and your friends make a safer, better choice, too.
