Sex, Drug, Porn, Smoking…: How to deal with Teen peer pressure and addictions

(By Kayla Chanai)

It feels so good to be back here with you again and I would love us to continue with our last discussion on dealing with peer pressure. It can be hard to go against the grain and resist social pressure but it’s very possible to do so. So how do you achieve it?

Be proud: If someone’s trying to get you to do something you know you shouldn’t, or something that makes you feel nervous, say ‘NO’ and be proud that you’re being strong and doing what’s right for you. Stand up straight, make eye contact, and don’t be apologetic for your actions. Rather, you should feel good about what you are doing.

Be prepared: Think through situations ahead of time. Plan how you’d say ‘NO’ if someone offered you a cigarette, a drink, or invites you to a place you shouldn’t be. You can even practice saying them in the mirror. That way, if you find yourself in that situation and you barely have to think, you’ll come off cool and collected, and the folks who are pressuring you will be less likely to push back after you say no.

Switch the Subject: You can also learn to switch the subject of conversation and this really does help. For example, if your friends start talking or pressuring you to smoke or do drugs you can switch the subject to a role model you really love and admire and tell them about the person’s journey through life. Alternatively, you can also say “right now, all I feel like doing is watch this or that movie or play a particular game” and invite them to join you. Try as much as you can to switch the subject and eventually they would understand you aren’t interested in unprofitable topics.

Avoid it: Sometimes the best way to tackle peer pressure is to avoid it totally. Stop hanging out with a person or people who are constantly trying to push you to do something against your will or something you aren’t comfortable with. Avoid them as much as you can. You can also avoid places where you feel uncomfortable. Make this up by spending time with friends who don’t make you uncomfortable or try to get you to do things you don’t want to. Stay with people who appreciate, inspire and motivate you. If you do not take responsibility for your life, no one else will. Remember it’s your Life; you have to rise up and live it!