hopeful123

What do you reply when someone asks you "why aren't you drinking?!"

That question usually makes me feel awkward. I'm 24 and I get asked this question a lot at parties and bars. I don't drive so I can't use that as an excuse. I don't want to reply that I have a drinking problem to someone who is not a close friend (just my personal preference). I usually just (force a) smile and say something like "I don't really feel like it".

Just wondering what you guys would reply!

Thanks x

Dee74

Hi Hopeful

Are you still hanging around with the same crowd you used to drink with? Chances are they'll keep asking that question.

Most people though really don't care. When I'm asked if I want a drink, I say no thanks and conversation generally moves on

Unless you're the kind of drinkers we were, it's just not a big deal.

D

mecanix

I tend to say i've got a weak liver if someone persists .
Most people don't make a big issue out of it , being an alcoholic i have tended to give alcohol more attention and importance than most normal people .

Bestwishes, M

HereIAm321

Just say you don't enjoy drinking or the effects it has on you. If they persist, just say "I just don't...LIKE alcohol. I like Coke. Want to buy me another round? "

The truth is, you DON'T (rationally) enjoy drinking, even if your Beastie does....nor do you like the effects (life-ruining consequences) alcohol has on you. So, you're not lying at all. In fact, you're telling the truth to everyone, including yourself!

HereIAm321

I myself am 29, so I know how much drinking is the "norm" in our age range. And it's very frustrating since we are all socialized to gravitate towards alcohol.

Delilah1

I haven't had anyone ask yet, my family knows so being around them has been easy. I have been exercising a lot since I have stopped drinking so if asked my reason will be "I am training."

least

I would just answer: because I don't want to, that's why. And if they ask again, tell them the same response again until they get it or leave you alone. Some people are hard headed and just don't get it, some are just nosey. Anyway, it's your business, not theirs.

Eunectes

Still drinking at present, but in the past when I have managed a few months it was 'I don't want to' , 'It doesn't agree with me' , 'trust me, I'm daft enough without it'

Crimson88

I'm 24 too, but most of my friends know I've got a problem.

Some of my suggestions are -

Hate hangovers, saving money, don't like not being in control, improve your health, stopped drinking as a personal goal.

Hope that helps

Xune

"I don't drink anymore, I stopped for a bit, lost 20 pounds, realized I didn't miss drinking, so I made it a lifestyle change."

The only people in my life who press the question, are my hockey buddies and once I give that answer...that's the end of it.

Boom.

Easy as pie.

LadyinBC

I just tell people I'm on anti depressants (which I am) and that I can't drink while taking them.

flutter

In the 4 plus years that I've been a non drinker, I have never had someone press me after saying "No thanks, I don't drink.". One time I did get a "really? never?" to which I answered, "never". People really don't care about what we do nearly as much as we think

LDT

^^^^Ditto!

wpainterw

Best reply: "I take medication which doesn't work if I drink."

W.

Missy7

I had an ex drinking buddy tell me: "I never drink." She didn't say, "I don't drink anymore."

I realize on reflection that "I never drink" was probably a way to bolster herself when I asked if she wanted to go get a beer. So if you can make your response a mantra that quiets your AV then that would be a good way to go.

Or, diet, prescription, designated driver, what have you.

A member I adore responded when I asked that question some time ago:

"After a long and storied career as a drinker, I have retired."

Zebra1275

What to reply to that dreaded question....

I thought the question was going to be from a police officer. Please step out of the car and "have you been drinking?"

LatteLady

A polite no thank you usually works. If they push, my eyebrow goes up and "why are you asking" is my question to them.
You know that eyebrow, your mother had it down pat and used it when you got into trouble.

FreeFall

I usually just say "I'm taking a break" and keep it simple. You could say it's a New Year's resolution. You could say youre on a health kick. You don't have to tell anyone you have a problem!