In recent years, chemsex has found attention in mainstream discourse. Chemsex refers to the use of certain psychoactive substances to enhance or prolong a sexual experience. While it has been particularly documented in some LGBTQ+ communities, it uses spans all sexual orientations and backgrounds. The physical, emotional and psychological impacts of chemsex can be significant, especially when substance use becomes compulsive or begins to affect relationships, health or mental wellbeing.
At Ibiza Calm, we support individuals from all walks of life who are navigating these challenges. The following article explores what chemsex involves, why it can be addictive and the importance of opening dialogue and seeking treatment when it’s needed the most.
What is chemsex?
As mentioned previously, chemsex refers to the use of certain drugs (typically stimulants or sedatives) to increase libido, lower inhibitions and extend sexual activity. The most commonly used substances include:
- Methamphetamine (crystal meth): A powerful stimulant that induces euphoria, alertness, and sexual stamina.
- Mephedrone (also known as M-CAT or meow meow): A synthetic stimulant that can heighten arousal, tactile sensitivity, and sociability.
- GHB/GBL (Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate): A central nervous system depressant that lowers inhibitions, increases feelings of intimacy, and enhances physical sensations.
These drugs are often used in combination, and sexual encounters under their influence may last for hours or even days, with users re-dosing to maintain the effects. Historically, chemsex has been associated with party settings, casual hook-ups, or group sex scenarios, often arranged via dating apps. Increasingly, however, reports indicate that straight couples are experimenting with these substances in private, intimate settings; sometimes unknowingly stepping into highly addictive and dangerous territory.
Why is chemsex so addictive?
Chemsex is unique in its ability to hijack both biological reward systems and emotional coping mechanisms. The combination of intense sexual stimulation and mind-altering substances creates a powerful feedback loop in the brain that can be extremely difficult to break.
- Neurochemical dependency: Substances like methamphetamine and GHB significantly elevate dopamine levels, producing an artificial sense of euphoria and connection. When these experiences are repeatedly paired with sexual activity, the brain begins to associate pleasure and intimacy exclusively with drug use. Over time, the ability to enjoy sober sex or emotional intimacy may diminish, leading to dependency.
- Emotional escape and coping: Many individuals turn to chemsex as a form of emotional escapism. For some, it serves as a temporary relief from stress, trauma, relationship issues, or unresolved psychological pain. For others, it is a way to experiment or enhance a connection with a partner. Regardless of motivation, the risk is the same: using drugs to facilitate intimacy can ultimately erode trust, communication, and healthy boundaries.
- Social normalisation and secrecy: Straight individuals engaging in chemsex may not view their behaviour through the lens of addiction. Without the support of established harm reduction networks or awareness campaigns, they may normalise the experience or conceal it out of shame. This secrecy often delays intervention until serious health or relational consequences arise.
- Tolerance, compulsion, and risk-taking: Users may increase dosage or frequency as tolerance builds to achieve the same high. This escalates the risk of overdose, non-consensual acts, sexually transmitted infections, and physical harm. In some cases, users have no memory of events that occurred under the influence, compounding trauma and shame.
The mental health impact of chemsex
The psychological toll of chemsex can be profound. Users frequently report feelings of anxiety, paranoia, depression, and dissociation, especially during the “comedown” period after prolonged use. Sleep deprivation, malnutrition, and substance-induced psychosis are also common, particularly when sessions extend over multiple days.
Many individuals experience a pattern of binge using followed by deep regret, guilt, or self-loathing that is often referred to as a “crash.” These emotional states may be compounded by fractured relationships, job loss, or deteriorating health, creating a vicious cycle of relapse and self-destruction.
The crossover between chemsex use and mental health conditions is significant. Issues such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and unresolved childhood trauma are commonly observed in individuals seeking treatment. Dual diagnosis—when substance misuse and mental illness co-occur—requires careful, integrated clinical management.
Treatment and recovery: A holistic, personalised approach
At Ibiza Calm, we recognise that chemsex addiction is not a one-size-fits-all condition. It affects people of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations, and treatment must reflect this diversity. Whether you are in a long-term relationship, navigating identity struggles, or simply trying to stop a pattern that is spiralling out of control, help is available.
- Medically supervised detox: Withdrawal from chemsex drugs can be dangerous, especially with GHB, which may cause seizures or severe agitation. Our on-site medical team provides a safe, supportive detox process, monitoring both physical and psychological health throughout.
- Individual therapy and trauma support: Using evidence-based modalities such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing), and trauma-informed care, we help clients uncover the underlying drivers of their substance use. Therapy may address self-esteem, relationship dynamics, past abuse, or performance anxiety.
- Sexual health and relational recovery: For many clients, recovery involves relearning how to engage in intimate relationships without substances. We offer support in exploring consent, boundaries, emotional intimacy, and pleasure from a place of authenticity. We also coordinate with sexual health providers to ensure appropriate medical care, including STI screening and education.
- Relapse prevention and aftercare: Recovery does not end when treatment concludes. Ibiza Calm’s aftercare planning includes relapse prevention strategies, ongoing therapy referrals, peer support, and education for partners or families where appropriate. We also connect clients with chemsex-specific recovery communities, where shared experience fosters belonging and accountability.
Addressing shame with compassion
One of the greatest obstacles to recovery is shame. Many individuals, particularly those who are new to chemsex or who never considered themselves “addicts”, struggle to admit they need help. At Ibiza Calm, we approach every client with compassion, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity. We believe that addiction is not a moral failing but a health issue, and that everyone deserves a safe path to healing.
Moving forward with support
Chemsex can affect individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, orientation, or relationship status. What may start as experimentation or a way to cope with stress can, over time, lead to patterns of substance dependence and emotional strain. These challenges are valid and deserving of care.
At Ibiza Calm, we offer confidential, evidence-based support tailored to each person’s needs and circumstances. Our approach combines clinical expertise with empathy, helping clients take meaningful steps toward recovery and well-being.
If you or someone you know is struggling with chemsex, support is available. You do not have to face it alone.
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