31. Besides saying "NO", what else can a person do to assertively refuse drugs? __

person can assertively refuse drugs by:* **Giving a clear and firm reason for saying no:** "I don't do drugs because I'm an athlete," or "I don't want to, it's not for me." This shows they've thought about their decision.* **Suggesting an alternative activity:** "Want to grab some food instead?" or "Let's go see a movie." This redirects the focus and provides a way out of the situation.* **Using body language that reinforces their refusal:** Maintaining eye contact, standing tall, and using a serious tone of voice all communicate confidence and resolve.* **Repeating their refusal if necessary:** Sometimes people don't take "no" for an answer. Repeating the refusal calmly and firmly can be effective. "I said no, and I mean it."* **Walking away:** If the pressure continues, it's perfectly acceptable to remove themselves from the situation. Their safety and well-being are paramount.* **Having a pre-planned exit strategy:** Having a friend they can call or a pre-arranged signal can help them leave a potentially uncomfortable situation quickly.It's important to remember that assertive refusal isn't about being aggressive or rude. It's about clearly and confidently communicating one's boundaries.