tired of alcohol having to be involved in everything

Sober people aren't as jovial as drunks so I get that you're not necessarily vibing with them.

I drink very super rarely if at all. Some people can control it, some can't. No one should pressure anyone to drink.

I'm not a drinker, but I don't hang out with them. My friends drink, but they aren't getting drunk on a regular basis and don't require alcohol for a fun evening. They never make fun of me for not drinking (well, sometimes, but only in a "friends joshing around" way).

If your social expectations are different than those of your friends, perhaps you need new friends?

That's WAY easier said than done, so I'd also recommend maybe just putting a name to it when it happens. So, if they're mocking you for not drinking and you hate that, just tell them that you don't like it. Be kind about it, don't vilify them or anything, but just gently say, "Hey, that joke makes me unhappy."

tough one.

im over middle ages, and maybe tried 1 or 2 beers tops. had a few wines over the decades, but rarely make it past 3 sips from a half glass. its just not for me.

i do think it is the lowering inhibitions thing... people need help to open up. sadly. I can open without the assistance, so maybe that is why I am who I am.

i know very few big drinkers now... seems to be something many outgrow as life responsibilities take root: jobs, kids, etc

Lifelong teetotaler here. My grandfather was killed by a drunk driver when I was seven years old, so it left an impression on me about where it can all go.

I read a great quote once -- Alcohol is the only drug you have to justify NOT using.

Stay strong and do what's best for YOU even in the midst of everyone doing the opposite. The older you get, the easier that will be.

It will damage your brain in time.

Why would you want to fuck around with your brain?