Refusal scripts you can actually use
Safety & Harm Reduction — Guide 13 of 25

You can say no to a drink, drug, or situation without explaining your whole life. Choose words that feel natural to you.

Try a short response
- “No thanks. I’m good.”
- “I’m not drinking tonight.”
- “That’s not for me.”
- “I’ll have something without alcohol.”

If someone keeps pushing
- “I already said no. Please stop asking.”
- “I’m here to spend time with you, and I’m sticking with my choice.”
- “Let’s do something else.”
- “I’m leaving now. I’ll catch up another time.”

Practise an exit
Say your chosen line aloud before you need it. Ask a friend to back you up or meet you outside. You can repeat the same sentence instead of debating. If the situation feels threatening, focus on getting to a safer place and contacting help. You do not need to win an argument to leave.

When someone else says no
Accept it without a debate: “Of course. What would you like instead?” Do not ask them to explain their health, age, or recovery history.

If you are helping someone
Back up someone’s refusal: “They said no. Let’s move on.”

WARN (OTHERS): After immediate care is covered, share dated advisories or observed concerns. Say what is confirmed and what is uncertain. Protect people’s privacy. Emergency care comes first. Never share someone’s name, identifying photo or private health details.

Your next step
Pick two lines: one for an offer and one for repeated pressure.

Learn more
NIAAA — Drink refusal skills
https://rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov/tools/worksheets-more/building-your-drink-refusal-skills

Current guide: https://therealdopeproject.com/safety-guides/refusal-scripts-you-can-actually-use

The Real DOPE Project — Safety Is for Everyone.

Contact: therealdopeproject@gmail.com

Resource text updated: 2026-10-13. Earlier sources retain their individual review dates.

General education, not individual medical advice or first aid certification. In an emergency, call 911 and follow the dispatcher and your exact kit instructions.

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