What Is Chemsex? Understanding the Risks and Support Options
In recent years, the term "chemsex" has become more widely recognised in conversations about mental health, addiction, and sexual wellbeing. For some, it may be unfamiliar; for others, it's a deeply personal or painful experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore what chemsex is, why it happens, the risks involved, and how therapy can help.
What Is Chemsex?
Chemsex refers to the use of specific drugs—typically methamphetamine (crystal meth), mephedrone (meow meow), and GHB/GBL (gamma-hydroxybutyrate/gamma-butyrolactone)—to facilitate or enhance sexual experiences, often over extended periods of time and frequently with multiple partners.
Chemsex is most commonly associated with men who have sex with men (MSM), but it can involve people of all genders and sexual orientations. It usually occurs in private homes, parties, or via hookups arranged through apps.
The term doesn’t refer to all sex that involves substances—what defines chemsex is the intentional use of these particular drugs to disinhibit, enhance stamina, reduce pain, and increase feelings of euphoria and intimacy.
Why Do People Engage in Chemsex?
The motivations behind chemsex can be complex and varied. For some, it's about freedom, confidence, or connection. For others, it may serve as an escape from emotional pain, loneliness, shame, trauma, or internalised stigma—especially around sexuality.
Some common reasons include:
Reducing social or sexual anxiety
Escaping emotional pain or trauma
Seeking connection or intimacy
Increasing confidence or sexual performance
Avoiding feelings of shame or isolation
While chemsex may initially feel liberating or pleasurable, over time it can lead to significant risks and consequences.
The Risks of Chemsex
Chemsex can have serious impacts on both physical and mental health. The drugs used are highly addictive and often lead to:
Physical health risks: unsafe sex, STIs, HIV, hepatitis C, overdose, dehydration, lack of sleep, and injury
Mental health concerns: anxiety, paranoia, depression, psychosis, and suicidal thoughts
Dependency and addiction: the cycle of relying on substances for sex or emotional regulation
Consent and trauma issues: being unable to consent clearly or remembering what happened during extended sessions
Isolation and shame: especially when chemsex becomes secretive or interferes with relationships and daily life
Many people who engage in chemsex struggle with conflicting feelings — they may experience enjoyment and connection but also feel shame, regret, or concern about losing control.
How Therapy Can Help
Talking to a therapist about chemsex can feel daunting — especially if there are fears of judgment or misunderstanding. But therapy can offer a non-judgmental, confidential space to explore what’s going on underneath the behaviour.
Therapy can help with:
Understanding the emotional and psychological roots of chemsex
Managing shame, trauma, or anxiety
Exploring issues around sex, identity, and relationships
Finding healthier ways to cope or connect
Reducing harm and planning for change, if desired
You don’t have to be in crisis or want to stop completely to seek support. Therapy can be a space to reflect, gain insight, and make informed choices that feel right for you.
Final Thoughts
Chemsex is a complex issue, often linked to deeper emotional, cultural, and psychological factors. Whether you’re personally involved in chemsex or supporting someone who is, compassion and understanding are key.
If you feel affected by chemsex or want to talk confidentially about your experiences, a qualified therapist can offer support — without judgment, pressure, or shame.
You are not alone. Help is available.
