There’s a conversation that usually goes unspoken in many communities, that is, the interaction of sex and drug use, also known as Chemsex.
For many, these behaviours can start with curiosity but lead to something far more consuming. While they’re often whispered about, they’re rarely discussed.
Hence, in this blog post, let’s talk about it openly. Whether you’re here to better understand your problem with Chemsex or looking for insight to support someone else, this is about knowledge, understanding, recovery, and the possibility of something better.
What is Chemsex?
Chemsex refers to using specific psychoactive substances before or during sexual intercourse to intensify and prolong the experience. Although it’s more common among men who have sex with men, anyone can become involved.
People who engage in chemsex often describe their experience as liberating, as it boosts their confidence and amplifies their pleasure. However, little do they know that behind the initial high those drugs can provide, there are serious physical, psychological, and sexual health consequences.
In addition, what makes chemsex different from general drug use is the intentional link to sex. Specifically, the drugs aren’t used casually but to enhance their sexual experiences with multiple or anonymous partners for several hours or even days.
What Drugs Are Used in Chemsex?
Many drugs are closely tied to chemsex scenes. Some of them include:
Methamphetamine or Crystal Meth
Methamphetamine, or also known as crystal meth, is a potent stimulant that can make you awake for several days, heighten libido, and can make your sexual activity feel limitless. However, regular use of these drugs can cause you to experience paranoia and other psychotic symptoms, such as delusions and hallucinations.
Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate / Gamma-Butyrolactone (GHB/GBL)
GHB and GBL are depressants that are also used in chemsex because of their ability to relax your body, heighten touch, and dissolve sexual inhibitions. Typically called liquid ecstasy, these drugs might seem harmless at first, but they can be easy to overdose on. For instance, just a few millilitres is too much to lose consciousness or stop breathing.
Mephedrone
Another substance that is tied to chemsex is Mephedrone. It’s a synthetic stimulant that can increase energy and sexual arousal. In chemsex, it’s used to extend sessions and increase closeness between partners. However, the crash afterwards can bring anxiety, insomnia, and depressed moods.
Ketamine
Although it’s not always in the front and centre, Ketamine does show up in chemsex. It numbs you from physical discomfort and causes dissociation. While Ketamine can be used to overcome past trauma, repeated use can also lead to memory problems and bladder issues.
Physical Health Risks of Chemsex
Aside from the side effects of using various substances, chemsex itself also poses several physical health risks, such as:
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Sexually Transmitted Infections
One of the major concerns in general public health related to chemsex is the high transmission rate of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In chemsex, people are involved in group sex, anonymous partners, inconsistent condom use, and even injecting drugs, which increase the risk of infections.
Dehydration and Exhaustion
The energy being provided by drugs during chemsex is not infinite. Over time, your body becomes worn down as you forget to hydrate, sleep, or eat. This can lead to dehydration and kidney problems, and you may also collapse from exhaustion. The lack of rest and nourishment during prolonged chemsex can put your entire body system under a dangerous level of stress.
Cardiovascular Problems
Your entire cardiovascular system can be negatively affected too especially when you frequently use crystal meth. These stimulants can trigger irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and even sudden cardiac arrest.
Psychological Health Risks of Chemsex
Aside from physical health, substance use in chemsex can also make you prone to developing several psychological problems. These may include, but are not limited to:
Anxiety
Chemsex can lead to heightened anxiety, especially during the comedown period after using the drugs. Specifically, the combination of stimulants and intense sexual experiences can trigger panic attacks and restlessness. Over time, this constant overstimulation can leave you in a persistent state of anxiety.
Depression
After the intense highs of chemsex, you may experience several depressive symptoms, such as depressed mood, loss of pleasure, and feelings of emptiness as a result of excessive drug use.
Psychosis
As mentioned above, certain substances used in chemsex, such as methamphetamine and mephedrone, can cause psychotic episodes. This may include hallucinations, extreme paranoia, and delusional thinking, which can persist beyond the period of substance use.
Addiction
Chemsex creates a strong link between drug use and sexual pleasure that can lead to addiction. For instance, the intense pleasure from both sex and drug use can drive you to repeat those behaviours over and over again.
Why Do People Engage in Chemsex?
Although those who have engaged in chemsex may have various reasons, some of the common ones are:
Reduce Inhibition
One of the most common reasons why some people engage in chemsex is to lower their psychological and physical inhibitions. For example, many of them may carry an internalised shame or anxiety about their sexuality, intimacy, or body image. Hence, using substance like GHB, mephedrone, or crystal meth can provide a temporart sense of freedom by reducing their fear, building confidence, and making it easier for them to connect with their partner during sexual experiences.
Intensify Pleasure
For others, using drugs in chemsex is primarily for intensifying their pleasure. Specifically, stimulants like meth and mephedrone can increase your arousal and stamina. However, over time, your body and brain begin to expect this heightened stimulation and may urge you to increase drug use.
As a Coping Mechanism
In some cases, chemsex serves as a way to cope with past trauma, feelings of isolation, or depressed moods, or to manage mental health issues like anxiety or depression. The drug use offers them temporary relief, but they don’t address the underlying causes.
Curiosity and Exploration
Sometimes, they tend to use drugs in a sexual context to explore or out of curiosity. Chemsex can seem like an open door for them to explore new fantasies and experience something that’s completely outside the norm. However, this desire to experiment can quickly become a habit and be out of control if left untreated.
Chemsex and Drug Addiction Rehab
Treating chemsex is no different from addressing other substance use disorders. The intervention begins with medically supervised detox to help you safely remove the substances from your body while safely managing withdrawal symptoms.
After detox, a residential treatment may be recommended, which offers a structured environment so you can focus entirely on recovery. Here, you’ll receive 24/7 care from professionals, including medications and therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help you address the underlying cause of compulsive drug use in a sexual context.
In addition, the therapies can also help you learn some coping strategies that you may use to deal with stressors instead of relying on compulsive sexual activities and drug use.
You Deserve a Life Beyond Chemsex
Understanding chemsex is more than just learning about what it is; it’s about recognising how it affects your relationship, wellness, and overall quality of life.
We know that chemsex remains a difficult topic to share. Here at The Orchid, we offer a safe and confidential space where you can connect with our compassionate team to discuss your struggle. Our experts understand the unique challenges tied to chemsex and can provide you with tailored support to help you regain balance.
Whether you’re ready to take the next step or simply want to talk, we’re here to walk beside you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Tell If Someone Has a Chemsex Problem?
Some of the symptoms include frequent drug-fueled sexual encounters, trouble enjoying sex without substances, withdrawal from social or work life, risky behaviours, and emotional distress after sessions. If Chemsex is interfering with health, relationships, or daily life, it may be a problem.
How Can Someone Talk to a Friend Who May Be Struggling With Chemsex?
Approach them compassionately and express concern about their well-being rather than solely focusing on the behaviour. Let them know you're there to support them and gently encourage professional help or a conversation with someone they trust.
Can Someone Go Sober After Being Involved in Chemsex?
Yes, many people have successfully become sober after being involved in Chemsex. With the right treatment and support, they can rebuild their lives, restore emotional intimacy, and develop healthy coping mechanisms without drugs.
