There's no need to explain to others why you aren't drinking, but if you feel pressed or if (like me) you want to have an answer in your back pocket, you can use these phrases.
I had enough booze for a lifetime in my 20s — I'm all set.
I like to use this one for people who knew me in my hard-partying days but have yet to get acquainted with the new, sober me. However, it's totally understandable if you don't want to bring up your history with the bottle to new friends — and you don't owe anyone an explanation for your choice to stay sober.
I think I might be allergic to alcohol? I don't feel well after I drink.
If you want to quickly put a stop to questions about drinking, this will usually do the trick, as most people aren't keen on questioning the dietary habits of others.
I have an early morning tomorrow.
This simple answer is a good one for people who keep bugging you about why you aren't hitting up the bar, as it doesn't require you to reveal additional information.
Alcohol and I don't get along so well. Believe me, you'd see what I'm talking about.
A phrase like this can be perfect if you're in a new crowd with people who may not be familiar with your history and you feel comfortable talking about your sobriety. Know that this response may invite questions, though you don't have to answer any you don't feel comfortable with.
You don't need to explain your choice not to drink if you don't want to. Simply saying "I'm not drinking right now" can shut down people prying for info you don't feel comfortable revealing.
If you don't feel comfortable flat-out saying you're not drinking, you're not alone. While honesty can be a great policy in many situations, there's nothing wrong with telling a white lie to get a booze pusher to leave you alone, like saying you have an allergy. Telling someone who won't seem to take no for an answer that you just started taking an antibiotic or a new medication that doesn't mix well with alcohol can also get them to stop pushing you to imbibe.
Putting yourself first is the most important thing
It's important to put your sobriety first — and sometimes this can mean changing up the way you interact with friends.
"Often, people may avoid parties with alcohol at first, until this question doesn't hold so much weight," Millet said. "When we're anxious, we need to push the anxiety down."
Asking yourself if you have the strategies necessary to stay sober in situations when you're up against anxiety can help you decide whether you're ready to attend parties where booze is present.
"People who have worked through this question are in a better place to be at the party," Millet said.
You're choosing not to drink, and that's fantastic. You don't owe anyone an explanation, unless you want to give one. It's OK to sidestep, avoid, or leave situations that tempt you to stray from your ideals.
Non-alcohol cocktails are in: Try Monday