Campaigns and Hubs Legacy campaigns Supporting others | Chemsex How to have honest conversations about chemsex Talking about chemsex can feel uncomfortable if you are worried about someone or unsure how they will respond to you, and especially if chemsex is not part of your life. Conversations about drugs, sex and health can bring up shame, fear or defensiveness. Open and honest conversations can help people feel less alone, better informed and more able to make safer choices. Also listening can make people feel safe and heard. The aim is not to judge, pressure or control someone. It is to create space for honesty, support and safer decision making. Why do honest conversations matter? Talking openly about chemsex can help with: Reducing secrecy and shame Building trust in relationships Talking about consent and boundaries Discussing sexual health and testing \ Recognising when drug use is becoming harmful or overtaking their life Helping someone ask for support sooner Improving safety before, during and after sessions Honest conversations can help people feel supported, informed and more able to make safer choices about chemsex and their wellbeing. When is the right time to talk? Timing really does matter. Try to speak when the person is calm, sober and in a private space. Talking to someone when they are high, feeling low or on a comedown might not be the best time as they may not be as willing to listen or feel emotionally able to have a conversation. Try not to start difficult conversations: During a chemsex session During a comedown During an argument When someone is high By text if possible When either of you is rushed or highly emotional Choose a time where there is space to talk properly and be willing to wait and listen. How can I talk about drugs, sex and health? Try to be direct but also listen to their perspective of how they experience chemsex. By asking open questions, listening, avoiding judgement and acknowledging their right to a private life, they may be more receptive to hear advice and any support you’re trying to offer. Try talking to them about: How often they have chemsex. This might make them think about whether they are doing too much or if they need a break How they feel before and after sessions Consent and boundaries. Setting limits and looking out for themselves and others will help them a safer and more fun time STI/HIV testing, PrEP, PEP, DoxyPEP and condoms Injecting safely if you think they do that Mental health, sleep and stress Whether chemsex still feels enjoyable or if their still in control It’s important that you don’t: Lecture or preach Shame them or judge them Blame them for any of their actions Give ultimatums Mock or minimise their experience Interrogate them for details Demand change People are more likely to open up when they feel safe and listened to. You can have conversations later too. You don't need to solve everything in one talk. How can the Chemsex Support Hub help? The Chemsex Support Hub provides non-judgemental information for LGBTQ+ people around chemsex, sexual health and wellbeing. Whether you want to start a conversation, support someone else, or reflect on your own relationship with chemsex, the hub can help you make informed choices and access support. Manage Cookie Preferences