Resources for those wishing to stop or reduce chemsex
Online resources and information
- The drugs wheel: clickable ‘map’ of different drugs categorised by their effect on the body: https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/#wheel
- Facts about crystal meth and its effects: https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/ice/
- Information about drugs, why people use them, and safer use: https://menrus.co.uk/drugs/about-drugs/
- Information about sex for men who have sex with men, including information about consent and support options where sex has been non-consensual: https://menrus.co.uk/sex/about-sex/
- Tips and advice for controlling chems use, including coping with a comedown, how to limit app use, how to cope with a lapse/relapse, and how to return to sober sex:
- Self-help guidance on stopping or reducing chemsex use: https://www.dean.st/chemsex-care-plan/
- Information about chemsex and the law: https://controllingchemsex.com/tips-and-information/information/police-legal-implications
Harm reduction
- Lothian Harm Reduction Team offers needle exchange: https://services.nhslothian.scot/harmreductionteam/
- MEN R US guide to safer injecting: https://menrus.co.uk/drugs-content/safer-slamming/
Other sources of support
- ROAM is a service for gay, bisexual, trans and all men who have sex with men. They offer sexual health testing, support for male sex workers and one to one health and well-being support: https://www.roam-outreach.com/
- Waverley Care GBMSM project: https://www.waverleycare.org/find-a-service/support-for-gay-bisexual-men/
- Crew2000 offer free, confidential counselling and a drop-in space for people who are concerned about their drug use. They also do testing for blood-borne viruses: https://www.crew.scot/
- Know the score offer a helpline on 0800 587 5879, lines are open Mon-Fri 9am-9pm & Sat-Sun 10am-4pm.
- Know the Score also offer support via webchat or email: https://www.knowthescore.info/ways-to-talk-to-us/
- Narcotics Anonymous offer mutual aid meetings: https://ukna.org/
- SMART Recovery programmes aim to help people find the tools to stop engaging in addictive behaviours: https://smartrecovery.org.uk/
Local Drug and Alcohol recovery hubs are a one-stop shop for those experiencing problems with drugs or alcohol, and anyone can drop in for an assessment of their needs. Each sector offers some sort of support to stop or reduce substance use, and/or help to regulate emotions without the use of substances: