Campaigns and Hubs Legacy campaigns Help, support, treatment | Chemsex Life after chemsex Life after chemsex will look different depending on the person. For some people it means stopping using chems completely, for others it could mean reducing drug use or changing how and when they take part in chemsex. Moving away from chemsex can take time, and it’s natural that you might feel uncertainty and anxiety about what that looks like, especially if it was a big part of your social life or your sex life. What can life after chemsex look like? Life after chemsex could include changes in your sex life, social life, relationships, and personal life. It might be a time of rediscovery, especially when it comes to sex. Having sex without drugs might feel different and a bit of an adjustment, as well as rebuilding your confidence when it comes to intimacy without drugs. It might feel difficult at first, but finding pleasure in sober sex can be a fun journey. Sex after chemsex can feel different at first, especially if chemsex was closely linked to your confidence or what you were into sexually. Some things that might change include: Getting used to sex without drugs Getting horny without drugs or chemsex settings Figuring out what you’re into sexually Feeling more vulnerable without the aid of drugs to lower your inhibitions Exploring what your new boundaries are in sex For some people, sex may feel less intense at first, but over time can become more emotionally connected, intentional, or satisfying. Your social life may also look a bit different, especially if you decide to cut down on partying or if a lot of your friends are still on the chemsex scene. Building a new social life outside of chemsex may take time and feel difficult or unsettling, however reconnecting with old friends, with sober friends or trying new things like social groups or LGBTQ+ activities can help you connect and find a community. This doesn’t mean you need to move away from your old friends, but just be mindful of what’s best for you and what your triggers are. You might feel a sense of freedom, or you might miss aspects of chemsex such as intensity, confidence, or connection. It’s normal to have these feelings and new routines may take time to settle in and to adjust. What goals can I set myself? Life after chemsex can be a time of reassessing or rebuilding your personal life, including sex and relationships. This can also extend to your day-to-day life, how you use your time, and what your social life looks like without chemsex. Setting yourself some new goals will help you stay focused, help you avoid potential triggers and make the transition from chemsex easier. Consider things like: Sleep: getting a good sleeping pattern, one that isn’t disrupted by drugs or comedowns, can help you feel more vibrant, rested and ready to make any changes you need to Nutrition and fitness: eating well and exercising don’t just have physical benefits, but mental health benefits too. It can help relieve anxiety and keep you focused Mental wellbeing: addressing your mental health, being aware of where you are at in your life, and maybe looking into support, such a therapy or group work, can help you during this time Your goals don’t have to be huge and they don’t have to be achieved all at once. Small, steady steps often feel more manageable and sustainable. It can also help to focus on what you want life to feel like, rather than only that you want to stop using drugs or having chemsex. Where can I find support after chemsex? Support can make a big difference during this time, especially when rebuilding confidence, routine, and your your social life and sex life. You can find support in may places, including: Talking to LGBTQ+ friendly services or support workers Sexual health clinics and drug reduction support Therapy or counselling Peer support or community groups Online resources and recovery information The Chemsex Support Hub provides information and support for LGBTQ+ people navigating life after chemsex. Whether you are: Thinking about stopping or reducing chemsex Already in recovery or transition Experiencing changes in sex, relationships or wellbeing Supporting someone else The hub offers non-judgemental help, information and advice to help you move forward at your own pace. The Chemsex Support Hub is here to support you in rebuilding your wellbeing, relationships, and sense of self beyond chemsex.[LINK] Manage Cookie Preferences