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Substance Influence on Relationships

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Substance Influence on Relationships

Substances such as alcohol and other drugs can affect a person’s judgement, mood, communication and behaviour. Their effects vary, and substance use is never a reason to blame or shame someone. Work through the scenario and practise safe, respectful ways to respond. You may answer generally rather than share personal experiences.

The group chat plan

Read the scenario. Maia and her friends are planning a weekend picnic. In the group chat, Maia says her older cousin has offered to bring alcohol. Maia feels unsure. Her friend Ruben replies, “Don’t be boring—everyone will try it.” Another friend, Hana, says, “Let’s choose a different plan. We can meet at the skate park with our families nearby.” Maia messages Hana privately: “I’m worried Ruben might be upset if I say no.” Hana replies, “You can be clear and kind. We can also talk to a trusted adult if anyone feels unsafe.”

Understand the influence

Use the scenario above for Questions 1–4.

1.Choose two ways substance use could affect relationships in this scenario or a similar situation.
  • It may affect judgement and lead to choices someone later regrets.
  • It guarantees that friends will communicate more honestly.
  • Pressure to use can create tension or make someone feel excluded.
  • It always makes people keep promises.
2.What is one sign that Ruben’s message is pressuring Maia? Explain briefly.
3.How does Hana support Maia while still respecting her choice? Give two details from the scenario.
4.True or false: If someone uses a substance, their friends are responsible for controlling that person’s choices. Give a reason for your answer.
TrueFalse

Practise helpful responses

Choose respectful words and safe actions. There is more than one good way to respond.

5.Write a clear, respectful sentence Maia could send to refuse the offer without blaming anyone.
6.Match each situation to the most helpful first response.
  • A. A friend keeps pressuring you after you say no.
  • B. You are worried a friend’s substance use is affecting them.
  • C. Someone is unwell or in immediate danger.
  • 2. Repeat your boundary clearly and suggest another activity.
  • 3. Talk privately, express concern without judgement, and encourage support.
  • 1. Move to a safe place and contact a trusted adult or emergency help.
7.Complete this ‘I’ statement for a friend who is making unsafe choices: “I feel when because . I hope we can .”
8.A friend tells you they are worried about alcohol or other drugs at home. Choose the safest helpful response.
  • Promise to keep it secret no matter what.
  • Listen calmly, thank them for telling you, and help them speak to a trusted adult.
  • Tell other friends so they can decide what to do.
  • Tell them it is their job to fix the problem.

Plan for safety and connection

A trusted adult could be a parent or caregiver, whānau member, teacher, school counsellor, coach or health professional. If anyone is in immediate danger in New Zealand, call 111.

9.Name two trusted adults or support people a young person could approach, and give one reason each might be helpful.
10.Put these steps in a sensible order by writing 1–4 beside each: ___ Get to a safer place if needed. ___ Pause and notice the pressure or risk. ___ Contact a trusted adult or emergency help if someone may be unsafe. ___ State your boundary or choose a safer option.
11.Explain one way substance use or pressure can affect trust, and one action that can help rebuild or protect trust.
12.In two or three sentences, write a practical plan Maia could use if the pressure continues at the picnic.

3 printable pages

  • Substance Influence on Relationships, page 1 of 3: The group chat plan, Understand the influence

    Page 1

  • Substance Influence on Relationships, page 2 of 3: Practise helpful responses

    Page 2

  • Substance Influence on Relationships, page 3 of 3: Plan for safety and connection

    Page 3

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