DrinkSense

DrinkSense for Young Adults

Canada’s Low-Risk Drinking Guidelines are a starting place for young adults to assess their drinking. These guidelines are based on the average person but the effects of alcohol vary greatly from one person to another so it’s important to know yourself. Weight and size, genetics, family history, mixing alcohol with other substances or medications, stress, hunger and lack of sleep can all change the way alcohol affects you.

Say Nope to Drinking Games

Drinking games are a big part of binge drinking culture. Beer Pong, Sociables or King’s Cup, Boat Race are all methods of getting a party started. Like you, we’ve been there and we know it’s tough to say “nope”. No one wants to be ‘that guy’ who gets shamed for sitting out, but here are a couple things to remember when you’re saying “no thanks”:

You’re not alone.

If you’re at a gathering where people are playing games, chances are you’re not the only one who doesn’t want to participate and is feeling the pressure. Which brings us to our next point…

Without a group, there is no game.

If you say no and others follow, the game will stop. It’s a lot easier to stand up against these silly games when like-minded people are on your side. Voice your opinion and there’s a good possibility others will be right behind you. Then voila! No group, no game. And you can safely get on with your night.

Don’t be intimidated.

Voicing your opinion and going against the grain are difficult but you can hold your ground. If your friends make fun of you or try to pressure you into participating, don’t back down. Be assertive and take control of the situation. Let them know that what they’re doing makes you uncomfortable. You might be surprised at how much influence you have.