THOUSANDS of Brits have admitted to avoiding social situations just because they feel too embarrassed saying “no” to booze.
A study of 2,000 has revealed that three in 10 adults feel pressured to consume alcohol when socialising – with nearly 30 per cent lying to get out of drinking.
Excuses most commonly used to avoid drinking were having to get up early the next day and claiming to be on medication
It also uncovered that almost half admit to cancelling party plans just to avoid people pressuring them to drink.
Of those most likely to persuade others to have an unplanned tipple, friends are worst (33 per cent), followed by their partner (30 per cent).
While others felt certain events made it harder to refuse, such as weddings (24 per cent) and work events (22 per cent).
People may also struggle to stay sober this Christmas with 24 per cent admitting to feeling peer pressure at a festive party.
Excuses most commonly used to avoid drinking were having to get up early the next day, 38 per cent, and claiming to be on medication, 32 per cent.
And three in 10 tell others they’re the designated driver, even if they’re not, with a fifth lying about wanting to take a break from booze.
However, the real reasons people have chosen not to drink alcohol were much different.
Just over 30 per cent didn’t want to wake up with a hangover, and 26 per cent just wanted to get a good night’s sleep.
A similar percentage were trying to kickstart a healthier lifestyle.
But why are people embarrassed by giving these reasons not to drink?
Dr Martha Newson, a psychologist specialising in human behaviour who has partnered with non-alcoholic wine drink McGuigan Zero, which commissioned the research, said: “If you’ve ever made up an excuse to not drink alcohol, you’re in good company.
“The research found that people tend to rely on excuses that are functional, such as having work the next day or driving, placing responsibility outside of their control.
“Interestingly however, the true reasons that people reported not drinking alcohol were embedded in self-awareness and personal development, such as health, sleep and wellbeing.”
The study also found a quarter of those who have felt pressure to ditch plans to stay on the soft drinks find birthday parties are where they have encountered the most pressure from others.
It also emerged 59 per cent of those polled via OnePoll, already do or would consider drinking a no or low alcohol beverage.
And beer, wine and mocktails are among the most common drinks respondents have tried.
Sober curious celebrity Louise Redknapp said: “Let’s be honest, when we’re not drinking alcohol at a social occasion, we all feel the need to explain ourselves, make excuses and apologise to our friends and family for not ‘being fun’.
“But it’s time to say no to the peer pressure.
’’With so many amazing no and low alcohol alternatives on offer, our drinking culture needs to change.
“So, for whatever reason you’re choosing not to drink this festive season, lean into your decision and I’m with you all the way.”
A spokesperson for McGuigan Zero, said: “Our research has shown that nearly 60 per cent of people already do or would consider drinking no or low alcohol drinks.
“It’s now a way of living for a lot of people.
‘’We’re passionate about giving people the tools to feel confident when choosing not to drink and McGuigan Zero allows you to still feel like you’re the life of the party, without the consequences the next day.”
If you are thinking about ditching the booze this Christmas season, even if it is just for one event, here are some festive mocktail recipes you could try.
DR MARTHA NEWSON’S TIPS TO NAVIGATE SOCIAL SITUATIONS WHEN NOT DRINKING.
1. USE RITUALS
Participating in the rituals of drinking – like saying cheers and clinking glasses – are powerful ways to signal that you are part of a group. Having particular drinks for special occasions, like mulled wine at Christmas parties or a glass of fizz at New Year, these are traditions that bring us together. So, try to include yourself in these rituals with low or no alcohol options by using the ‘right’ type of glass so you’re covered for every occasion.
2. PLAN AHEAD
Good friends want to include you in the fun and will feel like better hosts when you have the drink you want. By knowing that you won’t be drinking alcohol prior to the event, there will be less pressure on you to conform at the time.
3. JUST DO YOU
People who live their lives authentically, rather than making up excuses for themselves and their choices, are considered more honest and attractive by others, so feel confident in your alcohol-free drink choices.
4. KNOW THAT LOW OR NO ALCOHOLIC DRINKS ARE NOW PART OF BRITISH CULTURE
British culture has progressed dramatically in the last decade or so, with the focus we place on our physical health and mental wellbeing being one of the most noticeable changes. According to the research, most people only actually drink alcohol when they go out fewer than four times a month. This cultural shift toward less alcohol consumption shows no signs of diminishing.
5. SMILE
Whatever your response, if you feel comfortable doing so, keep smiling – smiling helps you to bust stress by releasing tiny molecules called neuropeptides. We all deserve to feel good about the choices we make and have meaningful interactions with friends and family, without alcohol. Everyone should be comfortable with the decisions they make to better themselves, and in turn those around you will feel more comfortable too.