Safe Holidays: Coping with Drug Pressure on Group Trips
Why is Peer Pressure Strong?
Peer pressure is particularly strong during adolescence when young people want to be accepted and liked within a new group.
Mechanisms of Pressure within the Group
In a group, there is an unwritten rule to conform to others to avoid being excluded. The pressure can be subtle, such as suggestions or jokes that are hard to ignore.
Desire for Acceptance and to Be “Cool”
Young people often want to show they are brave and fit in with the group, even if it means engaging in risky behavior.
The Role of Curiosity and Impulse
Adolescence is a time of curiosity and impulsiveness, which can lead to experimenting, including with drugs, especially under pressure.
How to Recognize Pressure?
Pressure to use drugs can appear in various situations, such as during conversations when someone encourages you to "try it just once," or when the group invites you to join in an activity involving substances.
Pressure differs from a simple suggestion because it creates a feeling that refusal may lead to exclusion, criticism, or loss of favor. If you feel someone is pushing, ignoring your “no,” or trying to shame you, it is pressure.
Defense Strategies – How Not to Give In?
Refusing under pressure requires courage and self-confidence, so it’s worth practicing assertiveness – the ability to say “no” firmly yet politely, without unnecessary explanations. Simple and clear responses like “I don’t want to” or “It’s not for me” are often enough to end the conversation.
It’s also key to stay true to your values and be aware of why you don't use drugs. When we know what’s important to us and have clear boundaries, it's easier to defend our decisions.
In difficult moments, it’s helpful to seek support – talking to supervisors, parents, or trusted friends helps you feel safer and get good advice.
Building positive relationships based on mutual respect allows for friendships that don't require compromise or giving in to pressure. True friends will accept you as you are.
What to Do When the Pressure Increases?
When pressure to use drugs becomes stronger, it’s important not to deal with the issue alone. Seek help from adults, such as educators, parents, or guardians – they are there to support you and help find safe solutions.
It’s also wise to avoid situations and places where the temptation is greater – if you feel the pressure is rising in a particular group, it’s better to step back and find another group or activity.
Developing healthy interests and hobbies helps not only to fill time with valuable activities but also builds self-confidence and gives a sense of belonging to groups that don’t involve compromises related to drugs.
Summary and Positive Message
Holidays are primarily a time for joy, relaxation, and personal development, not risk and unnecessary dangers. Everyone has the right to make their own decisions and to freely say "no" to peer pressure. By taking care of ourselves and our health, we build a strong, self-aware personality, ensuring that holiday memories will be full of positive experiences and true friendships.
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