It is not good if friends put you under pressure or if you feel pressure to drink. Drinking alcohol is a choice, and it is your choice not to do it. Your friends should respect that. Friends who want the best for you will respect your opinion and what you do. If they don't, you should ask yourself if they are such good friends, and if you want to be friends with them. It is important to know the reasons why you don't want to drink or at least not so much. It is also good to have knowledge about alcohol, for example about the risks. Then you can clearly explain to others why you have come to this decision. If people insist, you can tell them a few things, for example:

• I don't like it, I would rather have a soft drink.
• I just enjoy things more when I'm sober.
• My evening is nicer without intoxication.
• I don't need alcohol to get happy.
• I want to stay clear.
• I have to drive home.
• I do sports, and alcohol is bad for my condition.
• I want to be fit tomorrow.

You can also try a joke or a white lie, like:

• I can't stand it. I get sick.
• It gives me a bad humour.
• I made a bet not to drink.