Chemsex involves sexual activity under the influence of psychoactive substances that are supposed to increase sensations and extend the duration of the sexual act. This is a practice that is gaining more and more followers. Unfortunately, it poses a serious threat to physical and mental health.
History of chemsex
The beginnings of chemsex date back to the beginning of the 21st century. It was then that the increase in the number of cases of combining psychoactive substances with sexual activity raised concerns among public health professionals. The phenomenon has gained particular popularity among men who have sexual relations with men (MSM). Chemsex, also referred to as “party and play” (PnP) or “high ‘n’ horny” (HnH). Unfortunately, its true face has little to do with fun.
Why is chemsex a threat?
People who practice chemsex most often reach for:
- methamphetamine (the so-called crystal meth) – a strong stimulant that increases energy levels, reduces fatigue, can intensify sexual arousal and prolong activity,
- mephedrone (commonly known as “MEF”) – a substance with stimulating and euphoric effects, increases libido, intensifies sensations and causes greater sociability,
- GHB and GBL – compounds that, in small doses, can cause relaxation, a feeling of closeness and euphoria.
Many people are not aware of the effects that the use of these substances can have. Methamphetamine often leads to severe addiction, sleep disorders and serious mental problems such as anxiety or psychotic episodes. Panic attacks
Paranoid states and psychoses also occur after taking mephedrone. In the case of GHB and GBL, on the other hand, the line between the dose that causes the desired symptoms in chemsex and the toxic dose is very thin. In the face of such threats, it is difficult to consider chemsex as mere fun. And that’s not all.
Supporters of such practices often undertake risky sexual activity. Relationships with random unprotected people often result in infection with sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.
How to prevent the risks associated with chemsex?
Education plays an invaluable role – both sex education and addiction prevention. It is especially important among young people, who often succumb to peer pressure and are not always aware of the potential effects of certain actions.
People who have become addicted to psychoactive substances as a result of chemsex must be provided with appropriate therapeutic support. It happens that addiction goes hand in hand with other emotional problems. It is often the latter that encourage you to practice chemsex. The short-term pleasure it gives is an escape from anxiety and stress.
Summary – why is chemsex a social problem?
Chemsex promotes addiction to psychoactive substances, mental disorders and sexually transmitted diseases. It poses a threat especially to young people. Therefore, we cannot treat it as ordinary entertainment or fashion. This is a problem that must be fought for the good of the individual and society.
