How to Handle the Pressure to Drink at Christmas
December is a time for parties, catch-ups, and celebrations. However, it can also be a time of immense social pressure, particularly around alcohol. If you want to drink less or not at all this Christmas, here are some tips to help you handle peer pressure and navigate social events.
Find your allies
Pick a friend – someone you trust who understands your decision not to drink. Having supportive friends can reduce social pressure and awkward conversations around alcohol and make events more enjoyable.
Alcohol-free alternatives
You could try some alcohol-free beer, or mocktails or stick to a soft drink you enjoy. Many venues offer a variety of non-alcoholic drinks, meaning you can enjoy going to the same venues you want without feeling awkward at the bar or feeling pressured to drink.
Pick and choose your events
You don’t have to attend every event or gathering you’re invited to. If being in an alcohol-heavy event feels overwhelming, it’s fine to skip. There are plenty of festive events that don’t involve drinking. You could go to a local Christmas market, help out at your local food bank or community kitchen, or enjoy a Christmas concert.
Be the designated driver (with boundaries)
Driving can be a great reason to not drink, but make sure you’re not a taxi service for your friends! Let your friends know in advance when you plan to leave, so they can arrange their own transport if they want to stay longer.
Save money
Christmas is a costly time of year and alcohol is expensive. You can work out how much you would have spent on alcohol and buy yourself a Christmas gift with the money you saved.
Why wait until the new year?
Many people cut back on alcohol as a New Year’s resolution or give Dry January a go. By starting earlier, you give yourself the best chance at sticking to your goal in the long term. You might even inspire friends or family to join you in taking a more mindful approach to drinking.
Practical tips
You don’t have to explain to people why you’re not drinking, but if you want to, here are some suggestions:
- “I’m more fun sober”
- I’m ok, thanks”
- “Early start tomorrow”
- “I’m driving”
Support available
If you would like to speak to someone, Meic is here for you. You can contact Meic on the phone, text message, WhatsApp message, or online chat every day from 8 am to midnight. We offer free and confidential advice, information, and advocacy for whatever’s on your mind.
