Ever get that “uh-oh” feeling like something just isn’t right. Peer pressure can be strong, and it can push people to do things they don’t really want to do. If you are not comfortable with something, it’s really important to let your voice be heard.

Here are some different ways that have worked for other kids who wanted to say NO to peer pressure.

• Just say No! Keep on saying it.
• Leave, so that you can’t be persuaded.
• Pretend you haven’t heard and walk away.
• Make an excuse. “Can’t stop now, got to go…..”
• Talk about something else that they are interested in and don’t let them change the subject.
• “I thought you said… You’ve got to be joking!” Then change the subject or leave – still laughing.
• Pretend to be shocked or amazed.
• Have a better idea.
• Give friendly advice: “That could be a dumb thing to do. Whose idea was it? You’re too smart to get into that.”
• Say, “I’m not doing this because I’m your friend and I don’t want to see you get into trouble.”
• Say, “That’s a bit unkind. How would you feel if someone did (said) that to you?”
• Say, “Everybody’s different, even you.”
• Say, “You’re entitled to your opinion, I’m entitled to mine.”

Everybody experiences peer pressure at some point in their lives. If you are feeling pressured to go along with your mates and aren’t sure what to do, it’s really important to let a trusted adult know so they can help.