What to say when someone asks why you’re not drinking

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August 30, 2025 9 things to say when someone asks why you're not drinking By Angela Haupt Editor, Health and Wellness More people are drinking less alcohol—which sometimes takes a toll on their friends' spirits. Explaining why you're staying sober doesn't have to be awkward. I asked experts exactly what to say when you're encouraged to drink—or asked why you're abstaining. READ MORE » If you have a minute, please take our quick survey to help us better understand who you are and which health topics interest you most. Take the Survey WHAT ELSE TO READ Are 'Broken Skin Barriers' a Real Thing? Here's the best way to protect yours from damage.   The Race to Explain Why More Young Adults Are Getting Cancer Researchers are racing to find out.   FYI: People Don't Like When You Abbreviate Texts It's bc they indicate a lack of effort.   If you were forwarded this and want to sign up to receive it daily, click here. Today's newsletter was written by Angela Haupt and edited by Mandy Oaklander.   Want more from TIME? Sign up for our other newsletters.         Subscribe to TIME TIME may receive compensation for some links to products and services in this email. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Connect with TIME via Facebook | Twitter | Newsletters PRIVACY POLICY | YOUR CALIFORNIA PRIVACY RIGHTS Questions? Contact newsletters@time.com Update your email preferences or unsubscribe here © 2025 TIME USA, LLC. All rights reserved. TIME Customer Service, P.O. Box 37508 Boone, IA 50037-0508, United States of America Terms of Service