navigating alcohol-centered spaces

Have a non-alcoholic drink in your hand - If you are somewhere like a bar or a concert, people surrounding you may be consuming some sort of alcoholic beverage. Having a drink in your hand will make you feel less isolated from the crowd.

Have an exit plan - If things become too overwhelming/triggering, it's important to know where the exit is and know you can make your way out at anytime.

Be prepared for people asking why you're not drinking - Folx may wonder why, so have an answer ready before you go out that is straight to the point, to reduce any awkward or uncomfortable interactions.

Incorporate activities into your outings - Check out new places that have additional activities like karaoke or a barcade. That way everyone is sure to have fun!

Ask the bartender to make you a mocktail - You can still order a fun drink and feel included, without having the alcohol. Some bars and restaurants even have a mocktail menu!

Volunteer to be the designated driver - This helps to keep yourself accountable, and will help others to keep you accountable, too. Then no one will question why you're not drinking!

Tell your friends you don't plan to drink - This prevents any expectations of alcohol consumption or the need to justify yourself later.

Make sure the friends you're going out with know your situation - Having friends that support your decisions not to drink is extremely important and they should know your boundaries. If you feel nervous about telling them, that might be a sign to find different people you do feel comfortable being sober around.

Ask if someone would like to be sober with you - If you are nervous about going out sober, ask someone close to you if they would be willing to be sober. This can make you feel less alone when not drinking.

Know the intentions for going out ahead of time - If your friends are planning on going out with the goal of getting intoxicated, it may be a good idea to make a plan to leave early.

This campaign is brought to you by the Latinx Task Force of Los Angeles, with generous support from a City of Hope© Healthy Living Grant, UCLA Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Equity Community Seed Grant and a Breast Cancer Care & Research Fund Micro Grant.

Check out our resources for those interested in stopping or reducing their alcohol consumption!