Gay/Bisexual Men & Chemsex Addiction
Gay/Bisexual Men & Chemsex Addiction
Gay and bisexual men have been engaging in chemsex – a type of drug use that is aimed to enhance sexual activities – for decades. However, in recent years, there has been a marked increase in the number of gay men using drugs such as crystal methamphetamine, mephedrone, and GHB during sex. In some cases, these drugs are used to help gay men stay awake for extended periods of time so that they can continue having sex with their sexual partners for hours on end. In other cases, they are used to lower inhibitions and increase sexual arousal. Regardless of the reasons for the drug use, chemsex drugs can have serious consequences. They can lead to addiction, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, paranoia, and hallucinations. They can also make it difficult to remember details about sexual encounters, cause changes in sexual behaviour, and impact one's mental health i.e. psychosis, depression, and anxiety disorders are very common. Drug use, even casual use can also greatly increases the risk for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). For these reasons, it is important for gay men to be aware of the dangers of chemsex and take steps to protect themselves and their partners.
Drug abuse & addiction: impacts upon our sexual health
Drug use and addiction is a serious problem that can have a devastating effect on all aspects of a person's life. One of the most commonly overlooked consequences of drug use and addiction is its impact on sexual health and sexual activity. Drug users are at an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections; they are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviours that can impact one's sexual health.
Gay and bisexual men are at a higher risk of STI's than other populations. In addition, drug addiction can lead to erectile dysfunction and other problems with sexual performance. As a result, it is important for everyone, especially those who are struggling with addiction, to be aware of the potential risks to their sexual health. By understanding the dangers of drug use, people can be better equipped to make healthy choices and protect themselves from harmful consequences.
If you suspect that you may have an STI it is important that you go to your local sexual health clinic as they can diagnose if you have a problem. Sexual health clinics in major cities such as London, New York, and Los Angeles are very familiar to the practice of Chemsex amongst gay and bisexual men. If you suspect that you may have an STI, do not be ashamed, STI's are a normal part of adulthood, but frequent infection may be a sign you have a problem with drug addiction or your sexual activity may need to be reflected upon. Even if you do not have any symptoms and you do have an active sex life and more than one sexual partner, you should check you status on a regular basis.
What is Chemsex?
Chemsex is a term used to describe sex while under drugs. The most common medications used in chemsex are methamphetamine, mephedrone, and GHB/GBL. Chemsexuality has been a part of gay men lives for decades, but it's only recently that the term "chemsex" has become more widely used. There are many reasons why people may engage in chemsex. For some, the drugs can help to lower inhibitions and increase pleasure. They may also make it easier to connect with other people sexually.
In some cases, people use chemsex to reduce anxiety or cope with trauma. It can be risky because it can lead to impulsive and unsafe sexual behaviours, which may put people at risk of contracting HIV, other STIs and overdose. It can also lead to emotional difficulties afterward, such as anxiety, depression, and paranoia. If you consider engaging in chemsex, it is essential to be aware of the risks and take steps to reduce them.
What are the Dangers of Chemsex, Both Physically and Mentally?
Chemsex is a term used to describe the sexual activity that involves the use of drugs. People who engage in chemsex often take stimulants such as crystal meth, mephedrone, and GHB to increase their sex drive. In addition to being potentially addictive, these drugs can also be harmful to your health and can cause death.
Many people use it as a form of escapism; this is particularly harmful for their mental health for various reasons. Not facing your problems will not make them go away. An experienced therapist can assist you to deal with these problems in a healthy manner and help you achieve better results.
Physical Effects Of Chemsex
The use of drugs like mephedrone, GHB/GBL, and crystal meth before or during sex, can have physical effects. These can include dehydration, a higher risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and drug-related injuries. Dehydration is a widespread problem with chemsex. This is because the drugs involved can often cause users to forget to drink water. This can lead to serious health problems, including seizures and even death. GHB/GBL and crystal meth can also increase the risk of injuries due to accidents or sexual encounters that go wrong. These injuries can be as minor as cuts and bruises, but they can also be dangerous in severe cases. Furthermore, the use of these drugs can affect erection and ejaculation. People engaging in chemsex often make use of Viagra to overcome that. This means that their body has to cope with drug interactions that very often go wrong leading, in many cases, to overdose, seizures, drug induced heart attacks, stroke and even death. This risk is particularly higher in older men.
Mental Effects Of Chemsex
Chemsex can have several mental effects. These can include decreased inhibitions, euphoria, increased sexual desire, and hallucinations. For some people, chemsex can also lead to feelings of obsession, paranoia or anxiety. Additionally, using drugs to enhance sexual pleasure can lead to addiction. Patients suffering from addition often present cases of confusion, reports difficulties in concentrating and even breathing. Chemsex is often associated with high-risk behaviours, including increased aggressiveness, assaults and even rape.
If you or someone you know is struggling with chemsex addiction, it is essential to seek professional help as soon as possible. It is possible to recover from addiction and live a healthy, fulfilling life with treatment.
The Types Of Drugs Involved In Chemsex:
Chemsex users can find a variety of party drugs available on the scene. Some commonly used drugs involved in chemsex, depending on the preferences of those participating are: crystal methamphetamine, mephedrone, ketamine, and GHB/GBL. Sometimes other drugs such as cocaine or Ecstasy may also be used. Methamphetamine is a stimulant drug that can produce feelings of euphoria, increased energy, and confidence. It can also reduce inhibitions and make users more likely to take risks. Methamphetamine use can lead to anxiety, paranoia, and addiction. Mephedrone is another stimulant drug that can also cause feelings of euphoria and increased energy levels. Mephedrone can also lead to paranoia, anxiety, and addiction.
What is crystal Methamphetamine?
Crystal meth is a clear or translucent form of methamphetamine, which is a notoriously addictive stimulant. The drug is typically smoked or injected, and it produces feelings of euphoria, increased energy and alertness. However, crystal meth is also associated with a range of harmful side effects, including paranoia, aggression and psychosis. Long-term use of the drug can lead to serious health problems, such as brain damage and cardiovascular disease. Crystal meth is notoriously difficult to quit, and relapse rates are high. As a result, crystal meth addiction is a serious public health concern.
Dangers of Crystal Methamphetamine
Crystal methamphetamine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Also known as "crystal meth" or "ice," it is a clear or white crystalline powder that has a bitter, metallic taste. It is most often smoked in a glass pipe, but can also be ingested, snorted, or injected. Crystal meth produces an intense feeling of euphoria, increased alertness, and feelings of invincibility. However, it also leads to increased heart rate and blood pressure, decreased appetite, and increased pleasure from physical activity. These effects can last for several hours. Crystal meth is highly addictive, and users can develop tolerance quickly. With continued use, users may experience negative psychological effects such as paranoia, anxiety, and hallucinations. Crystal meth is also associated with aggressive behaviours and can lead to violent outbursts. Long-term use can lead to liver damage, kidney damage, and stroke. Short-term side effects of crystal meth include: insomnia, anxiety, irritability, congestion, runny nose, sweating/decreased ability to regulate body temperature, dry mouth/tooth decay (from lack of saliva), itching/scratching (from fictitious insects "meth mites"). If you are or know someone who is struggling with crystal meth addiction, I highly recommend you read the book The Truth About Chemisex, available on Amazon. In addition, look for a qualified experienced therapist to work on your behaviour before it gets out of your control. Not missing appointments or work does not mean that you do not have an addition.
What is Mephedrone?
Mephedrone, also known as 4-methylmethcathinone (4-MMC) or 4-methylephedrone, is a synthetic stimulant drug of the amphetamine and cathinone classes. Mephedrone was first synthesized in 1929, but did not become widely known until it was rediscovered in 2003 by a group of researchers who were investigating the structure of analogues of mephedrone. Mephedrone produces similar effects to MDMA, methamphetamine, and cocaine, and has been sold online as a "legal high" since 2007. The effects of mephedrone include euphoria, increased alertness, excitement, and feelings of intimacy. Common side effects include agitation, insomnia, anxiety, and headache. While there have been no reported deaths from mephedrone use alone, it has been implicated in a number of fatalities in combination with other drugs. Mephedrone is currently classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States.
Dangers of Mephedrone
Mephedrone is a novel psychoactive substance that has gained popularity in recent years. Also known as "bath salts," it is a synthetic stimulant that produces effects similar to those of methamphetamine and cocaine. Mephedrone is often sold online or in head shops, and users report feeling energetic, alert, and euphoric after taking it. However, mephedrone can also cause dangerous side effects, including paranoia, anxiety, and psychosis. In some cases, users have even resorted to violence or self-harm while under the influence of the drug. Because of its high potential for abuse and toxicity, mephedrone should be avoided. If you or someone you know is struggling with mephedrone addiction, please seek professional help immediately.
What is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a medication primarily used for starting and maintaining anaesthesia. It induces a trance-like state while providing pain relief, sedation, and memory loss. Other uses include for chronic pain and for sedation in intensive care. It is classified as an NMDA receptor antagonist and has also been found to act as a dopamine reuptake inhibitor and a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Side effects include involuntary muscle movements, high blood pressure, and renal impairment. Overdoses may lead to death. Ketamine has been illegal in some countries due to its recreational use as a "club drug" or "date rape drug". Ketamine was first synthesized in 1962, by Calvin Stevens, while researching potentiates drugs for Bell Laboratories. The patent for ketamine was held by Parke-Davis which was later bought by Pfizer in 1970. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. As of 2018, the wholesale cost in the developing world is about 0.16 to 1 USD per dose. In the United States a course of treatment typically costs less than 100 USD.
Dangers of Ketamine
Ketamine is a commonly used veterinary anaesthetic that is also abused as a recreational drug. When used properly, ketamine can be a safe and effective medication. However, ketamine can cause serious health problems. Short-term effects of ketamine abuse include hallucinations, impaired motor function, and blackouts. Long-term effects of ketamine abuse can include kidney damage, liver damage, and brain damage. Ketamine is also addictive, and users can develop a tolerance to the drug, requiring higher and higher doses to achieve the same effect. In addition, because ketamine is often sold illegally, it is often impure and may contain other harmful drugs. As a result, users are at risk of suffering from an overdose or other serious health complications. Anyone considering using ketamine should be aware of the risks involved in order to make an informed decision.
What is GHB?
GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that was approved by the FDA in 2002 for the treatment of narcolepsy. It is a naturally occurring metabolite of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and is also found in small amounts in the brain. GHB is used illicitly for its euphoric and sedative effects, and has been associated with date rape. It has a short half-life and begins to take effect within 30 minutes of ingestion. The effects typically last for 2-4 hours, but can last up to 8 hours. Common side effects include decreased heart rate, drowsiness, dizziness, breathlessness and nausea. Serious side effects include seizures, coma, and death. GHB is often mixed with alcohol or other drugs, which can increase the risk of overdose. There is no standard dose of GHB, so it is difficult to know how much to take. Because of this, it is important to start with a low dose. GHB should not be used with alcohol or other CNS depressants. When used recreationally, GHB is often referred to as "G," "liquid G,” or “Giselle.”
Danger of GHB
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is often used as a date rape drug. This is because it can cause people to become dizzy, disoriented, and have impaired motor function. GHB can also cause vomiting and can lead to unconsciousness. Because of its effects on the body, GHB can be extremely dangerous. In addition to the risk of rape, people who use GHB also run the risk of overdose. When taken in large doses, GHB can slow down breathing and heart rate, leading to coma and death. GHB is also often mixed with other drugs or alcohol, which can increase the risk of dangerous side effects. For these reasons, it is important to be aware of the dangers of GHB and to avoid using it.
Gay and bisexual men: Who Is Most At Risk From Chemsex?
Chemsex, which uses drugs to enhance sexual pleasure, can be risky for anyone who participates in it. However, some people are more at risk than others. People who are already struggling with addiction or mental health issues may be more likely to engage in chemsex activities because the drugs can provide a temporary high that masks their problems. This can lead to further substance abuse and addiction and increased risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. People who engage in chemsex with multiple partners are also at risk of contracting HIV and other STIs. Drug use can make people less inhibited and more likely to take sexual risks, which increases their chances of getting sick.
How To Know if You Have a drug addiction?
There isn't a definitive answer, as addiction is a personal matter. However, some general tips include looking out for the following signs and symptoms:
● You're regularly using chemsex drugs even though you know they're causing harm to your physical or mental health.
● You feel like you can't have fun or enjoy yourself without using chemsex drugs.
● You're spending more time and money on chemsex than you'd like to admit.
● You feel like you need to use more and more of a drug to get the same effect.
● You're experiencing negative consequences from your chemsex use (e.g., health problems, financial problems, relationship problems, confidence issues).
How To Protect Yourself From the Risks of Chemsex?
There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from the risks of chemsex. First, make sure you know your partners well and trust them completely. It's also essential to use condoms and water-based lubricants during sex and avoid sharing injecting equipment. If you choose to use drugs, start with small amounts and increase cautiously - be aware that some substances can decrease inhibitions and impair judgement – this include the judgement of how you fell or whether to increase the dose. Finally, always let someone else know where you are going and when you expect to return if something goes wrong. By following these simple precautions, you can help keep yourself safe while enjoying the fun and excitement of chemsex.
What Can You Do About Chemsex?
There is hope for those who have a chemsex addiction. Addiction treatment with an experienced addiction therapist is a good plan. Sometimes residential treatment facilities will be necessary, but in the majority of cases outpatient therapy will be enough.
Risky sexual behaviour while under the influence of drugs carries with it a laundry list of potential consequences, including STIs, HIV, overdose, and death. The best thing that can be done is to prevent people from getting involved in chemsex in the first place. Many different contributing factors can lead someone down the path of chemsex. It may be easier for some people to escape into a drug-induced sexual euphoria than to deal with personal issues or problems in their lives.
Others may be peer pressured into trying it out of curiosity or peer pressure. If you're concerned about your own or someone else's chemsex behaviour, there are things you can do to reduce the risks. For example, you can be aware of the risks and make informed decisions about whether or not to take part in chemsex. You can also always use condoms and dams and avoid using drugs you don't know well or haven't been tested for. By taking these precautions, you can help to reduce the risks associated with chemsex.
How to Treat an Addiction to Chemsex?
If you believe that you are struggling with a chemsex addiction, it’s essential to have hope, as this can be successfully treated. Not only does chemsex respond addiction treatment, it can literally save your life. Engaging in high-risk sex with multiple partners while being high on drugs is not a safe or healthy way to live. However, treating a chemsex addiction is not like treating other forms of addiction.
First of all, there are two parts to the problem – the addiction to drugs and the sex addiction. Both sides need to be treated for you to heal. Second, it’s essential to understand that the high from chemsex is incredibly intense – much more so than from other drugs. As a result, it can be tough to give up. However, there are ways to break the cycle and get your life back on track. You can overcome a chemsex addiction and lead a healthy, happy life with commitment and effort. The therapists at Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling have written a book about the topic “The Truth About Chemsex: Overcoming and Understanding Chemsex Addiction”. We also provide online addiction treatment for this addiction.
How Can Therapy Help You To Overcome this Addiction?
Chemsex can be incredibly addictive and lead to risky behaviours, such as unprotected sex. If you're struggling with a chemsex addiction, therapy can be a beneficial tool. Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling Ltd. offers online counselling services to provide you with the support you need to recover. Our team have literally written the book on the topic, and are ready to help you overcome your chemsex addiction. There is hope, you can change, with the right support and guidance, you can turn things around. In addition, we offer a range of resources that can further support your recovery. So if you're looking for help with a chemsex addiction, be sure to contact Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling to arrange for a complimentary consultation today.
The Importance Of Seeking Help From Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling
Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling is an award winning online mental health clinic based in London, UK. Our team aims to provide psychological help directed toward increasing your autonomy or independence. We believe that greater freedom comes with greater responsibility and better self-care. Our therapy aims to provide clients with the tools they need to take more control over their lives and make better choices for themselves. This includes helping our clients to understand themselves better, set goals, and develop coping mechanisms. For many of our clients, Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling has been literally a life-changing & saving experience. Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling can help people who engage in chemsex explore their motivations for doing so, assess the risks involved, and help those who are ready to quit overcome this addiction.
Final Words
So, there you have it. Chemsex is a growing problem worldwide, with potentially devastating consequences for those who participate. If you are worried that you or someone you know may be addicted to chemsex, please do not hesitate to seek help from Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling. Our experts are leaders in the filed of Chemsex addiction treatment and can provide you with the support and guidance you need to overcome this addiction and regain control of your life. Contact Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling today for a complimentary consultation to discuss your options.
