A report commissioned by the London Boroughs of Lambeth, Southwark & Lewisham, studying drug use in sexual settings amongst gay and bisexual men in London found that chemsex is more prevalent in the city London than in other parts of the UK.
Chemsex is a term often used to describe sexual activity between men that occurs whilst under the influence of drugs. The drugs are taken either immediately before and/or during sex to enhance and prolong sexual activity.
The report, which was published by The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, detailed that the illicit drugs most commonly associated with chemsex were crystal methamphetamine “crystal meth”, GHB/GBL, mephedrone “meow meow”, and to lesser extent, ketamine,cocaine and crack cocaine. GHB is also known as ‘liquid ecstasy’ and is a potent central nervous system depressant commonly used in chemsex.
Alcohol, whilst not considered by most to be a drug, does lower inhibitions and affect decision-making. For some, it increases sexual desire and arousal – alcohol is the most commonly used substance in sexual activity.
The study showed that nearly all crystal meth use was reported to be used within a sexual setting, whilst 75% of mephedrone users and 85% of GHB/GBL users stated that they used these drugs solely to facilitate sex. Many individuals use a concoction of alcohol and drugs at the same time, placing themselves at higher risk of overdose and harm.
What Is Chemsex?
Chemsex is a term used when individuals take drugs purely to facilitate and enhance sexual activity. It is a term that is applied more often to gay communities. Typically, the medications taken reduce inhibitions and increase sexual arousal and stamina. The most commonly used drugs in chemsex are Crystal Methamphetamine, GHB/GBL and Mephedrone. These certain drugs are used to enhance sexual experiences but come with significant risks, including negative impacts on physical and mental health, increased likelihood of unsafe sexual practices, and potential issues regarding consent among participants.
The term “Slamsex” is used when drugs are injected instead of swallowed or snorted for a more immediate and intense high.
Global Drugs Survey Highlights Young Brits Engage in Most Chemsex Drugs
In a different report conducted by The Global Drug Survey, it was found that young Brits are most likely to engage in chemsex out of all the countries in Europe, Canada, Australia and even the US.
The Global Drugs Survey Report collated data from 14,050 respondents, 65% of who identified themselves as straight, 8.7% who identified themselves as gay and 6.7% who identified themselves as bisexual. Some that took part in the survey did not confirm their gender or their sexual orientation.
The survey found that gay men were 1.6 times more likely to have chemsex than heterosexual men, so whilst the report commissioned by the London Boroughs of Lambeth, Southwark & Lewisham studied solely gay and bisexual men, The Global Drug Report shows that chemsex is also a problem for gay women, bisexual women and heterosexual men and women, although to a lesser extent.
The report also found that British people, the younger generation and those on higher household incomes were also more likely to engage in chemsex.
These shocking facts highlight that chemsex is an issue that needs to be brought to the forefront of our attention. Due to the nature of the drug taking, very few are willing to talk about it openly for fear of being judged or shamed. This stigma needs to be quashed as chemsex, by nature, is very risky, and many need help but are too afraid to ask for it. Engaging in chemsex often involves having multiple sexual partners, which increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
The Dangers of Chemsex with Multiple Sexual Partners
With more British and in particular Londoners having drug-fuelled sex, it is important to highlight the dangers associated with chemsex. Chemsex often involves high risk sexual behaviour, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM) and individuals living with HIV.
Chemsex parties are regularly organised and accessed by London’s gay community. Chemsex hookups and meet-ups can also be easily be arranged online and through mobile phone dating app sites.
Amongst London’s gay community chemsex often takes place between strangers, sometimes with multiple partners in one night and without the use of protection.
Having sex with strangers and multiple partners whilst under the influence of alcohol or mind-altering drugs comes with many risks and dangers. Methamphetamine use during chemsex can lead to high risk sexual behaviours, increasing the incidence of HIV infections.
The well-known risks and dangers of chemsex include:
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Making decisions that the individual later regrets once sober
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Not using protection during sex leading to increased risk of contracting an STI or STD
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Heightened risk of contracting HIV due to having unprotected sex with strangers and multiple partners
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Risk of a drug overdose, especially when mixed other drugs and/or with alcohol
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The danger of developing an addiction both to the drug and to drug-fuelled sex
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Being vulnerable to rape, assault and theft due to drug intoxication
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Inability to have healthy intimate relationships with others
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Increased likelihood of contracting other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to unsafe sexual practices
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Increased health risks for people who inject crystal meth, including infections and blood-borne viruses
When chemsex becomes an addiction, the individual will never feel satisfied, they will feel unable to have sex or intimacy without drugs being involved. This can lead to them taking bigger and bigger risks, taking more drugs and becoming obsessed with chemsex, to the extent that other areas of their life become unimportant.
Chemsex addicts become depressed, withdrawn, anxious and often feel full of shame. They very much lead a double life and this in itself has consequences to the sufferer and to their family.
Chemsex and Substance Use
Chemsex often involves the use of multiple substances, which can significantly increase the risk of adverse reactions and health complications. The most commonly used chemsex drugs include crystal meth, mephedrone, GHB, and GBL. These substances are known for their ability to heighten sexual arousal and reduce inhibitions, making them particularly appealing in a chemsex context. However, they also come with a host of negative effects. For instance, crystal meth can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure, while GHB and GBL can cause severe anxiety and paranoia.
Using multiple substances simultaneously can be particularly dangerous. The risk of overdose is heightened, and the interactions between different drugs can be unpredictable and potentially life-threatening. Beyond the immediate physical dangers, chemsex can also lead to long-term health issues. These include an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), anal injuries, and the development of substance use disorders. Understanding these risks is crucial for anyone engaging in chemsex, as it underscores the importance of making informed and safer choices.
Chemsex and Dating Apps
In today’s digital age, chemsex is often organized through gay dating apps such as Grindr, Scruff, and Recon. These platforms provide a convenient way for individuals to connect with others who share similar interests and desires. However, they also facilitate high-risk behaviors, including unprotected sex and substance use. The anonymity and ease of access offered by these apps can lead to situations where individuals engage in chemsex with multiple partners, often without prior knowledge of each other’s sexual health status.
It’s essential to be aware of the risks associated with using dating apps for chemsex. Prioritizing your safety and well-being should always be at the forefront. This means being honest about your intentions and boundaries, using protection to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, and being mindful of the substances you are using. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the connections made through these apps while minimizing the associated risks.
Reducing the Risks
While chemsex can be a high-risk activity, there are several steps you can take to reduce these risks and prioritize your safety and well-being. Here are some practical tips:
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Avoid mixing drugs with alcohol or other substances: Combining different substances can lead to unpredictable and dangerous interactions, increasing the risk of overdose.
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Use protection: Always use condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
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Be aware of the risks associated with substance use: Educate yourself on the effects of the drugs you are using and take steps to minimize harm.
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Prioritize your physical and mental health: Take regular breaks from chemsex to allow your body and mind to recover. Seek support if you need it.
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Communicate openly with your partners: Be honest about your intentions and boundaries, and ensure that your partners are on the same page.
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Seek support: If chemsex is becoming a problem, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are resources available to support you in making healthier choices.
By taking these steps, you can reduce the risks associated with chemsex and ensure that your health and well-being remain a priority. Remember, it’s essential to stay informed, make safer choices, and seek support when needed.
Chemsex Linked to High HIV Rates and Sexually Transmitted Infections in London
Whilst only a minority of the gay population engage in chemsex, for those that do it can become a very big problem. Engaging in chemsex often involves having multiple sexual partners, which can lead to impaired decision-making regarding consent and increase the risks of sexually transmitted infections. As chemsex has become more accessible through today’s technology, there has been a notable rise in HIV numbers in the London area. Whilst the two cannot be proven to be linked, many sexual health workers feel that they are.
Information taken from The Terrence Higgins Trust shows that London continues to have the highest rates of HIV in the country. 36% of new HIV diagnoses in the UK in 2017, were London residents.
HIV is more common than people think with the most recent estimate suggesting that there are 101,600 people currently living in the UK with HIV. It is also estimated that 7,800 of HIV positive individuals are undiagnosed and so do not know that they have the life-threatening disease and so are less likely to take precautions.
The London borough with the highest proportion of residents who have been diagnosed with HIV is Lambeth – with just under 15 people per 1,000 living with diagnosed HIV.
Treatment for Chemsex Addiction
Chemsex can become a dual addiction, both to the drug(s) involved and to the risky sex. For the minority that engages in chemsex, those that do so regularly are in danger of developing a full-blown addiction. Addiction is a life-threatening illness that requires professional treatment and intervention. Neglecting physical health due to chemsex can lead to serious issues, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
For those that chemsex becomes a problem, there are often underlying issues that need to be resolved in order that they can recover. Undergoing rehab treatment for chemsex can be both lifesaving and life-changing.
If you or a loved one are struggling with an addiction to chemsex, we urge you to set aside your fear and seek help. PCP can provide private bespoke rehab programmes for those that suffer from an addiction to chemsex or where chemsex has become problematic in their life.
Please call us today for professional and confidential advice as to how we can best help you as an individual.
