We know, you don’t want a lecture from your mom about the New Years Party you’re getting ready to go to (yes, that lecture. The one that starts with ‘You’re not going out dressed like that, are you?’ and descends into nuclear warfare in three sentences). These are the Friends Rules; the useful help that your friends will give you – you might still be a little miffed about it, but good advice sometimes hurts.

The Food Rule

Eat it.

There you go. That’s all you have to do. Before going on any big night out, either make sure there will be food provided, or eat before you go. If you drink any alcohol on an empty stomach, it will get into your bloodstream quicker. Food will slow that down.

The Drink Rule

Don’t be pressured.

You shouldn’t feel pressured to drink. If you don’t want to drink, tell the people you’re with – if they don’t respect your wishes, you probably shouldn’t be with them. Be in control; don’t get drunk, and don’t let other people mix drinks for you or give you bottles where the top is already removed. Don’t leave your drink unattended. It is easy to slip a date rape drug into a drink without you even noticing. Pay attention to your drink.

The Dress Rule

Fashion fades. Style is Eternal.

We would never suggest that you prepare an outfit that makes you look like Laura Ingles – unless it’s a fancy dress party with a theme of ‘Little House on the Prairie’. However, if you don’t look like Lady GaGa, you shouldn’t be dressing like her either (and even if you do look like her, PLEASE still don’t dress like her). Aim more for the Audrey Hepburn look of ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’, not a trashy ‘Dinner at the Playboy Mansion’ ensemble.

The Driving Rule

Don’t.

If you think there may be any chance at all that you might drink on New Year’s Eve, put your keys away right now. The cops have this weird idea that a lot of people might drive under the influence of drink and/or drugs. If you try it, you’ll quite likely get caught.

We suggest that every party group have a ‘designated driver’. Why shouldn’t it be you? (ignore that, if you don’t know how to drive!). Support the designated driver by not pressuring them to drink or use drugs.

The Fun Rule

Have it.

New Years Eve is a fun time to party. Enjoy the party, enjoy your friends, and be sensible. And look forward to the New Year ahead. We hope you have a great time.

And sometimes, even if you follow these rules, things may get out of hand and go further than you intended. If you think you might be pregnant, that’s when Mom really should step in. However, if you’re too embarrassed or scared to talk to her, or you don’t have that great of a relationship, call us. The PMC is here to help and support you all the way through. Call us on 385-383-7144 or click here to schedule an appointment using the scheduler.