CHEMSEX SUPPORT & COUNSELLING

What is chemsex?

Chemsex generally refers to the use of particular drugs in a sexual context, often to enhance or prolong sexual experiences.

People's experiences are different. You might be comfortable with your current choices but want to understand potential risks. You might have noticed changes in your drug use, sexual experiences or relationships. Or perhaps things aren't feeling the way they used to.

There is no single experience of chemsex, and there is no single reason why someone might seek support.

We're here to listen to your experience, not make assumptions about it.

Confidential. Non-judgemental. Here for you.

You deserve support, whatever your relationship with chemsex.

Chemsex can mean different things to different people. For some, it is an enjoyable part of their sexual lives. For others, it can sometimes become complicated, difficult to manage or have an impact on their physical health, emotional wellbeing, relationships or everyday life.

Whatever your experience, you don't have to navigate it alone.

The Sexual Health Centre offers a welcoming space where you can talk openly about chemsex, sexual wellbeing and substance use, without fear of judgement.

You don't need to reach crisis point to ask for support. And you don't need to have all the answers before you get in touch.

How can counselling help?

Our proposed Chemsex Counselling Programme aims to provide an opportunity to explore your experiences, identify what matters to you and develop strategies that support your wellbeing.

You might want to:

· Talk about your relationship with chemsex and substance use.

· Explore what you enjoy about chemsex and what you find challenging.

· Understand patterns of use and identify situations where you feel vulnerable.

· Reduce potential risks and make informed choices.

· Explore the impact of chemsex on relationships, intimacy and sexual wellbeing.

· Discuss consent, boundaries and sexual experiences.

· Address feelings of anxiety, loneliness, shame, guilt or low mood.

· Explore the relationship between mental health and substance use.

· Consider changing your patterns of use or stopping altogether.

· Rebuild confidence and develop goals for the future.

Your goals are our starting point.

You don't have to want to stop using drugs to benefit from counselling.

What can I expect?

We understand that reaching out for support can feel like a big step.

Our aim is to make the process as straightforward and comfortable as possible.

1. Get in touch

Contact the Sexual Health Centre by phone or email. You can tell us as much or as little as you feel comfortable sharing.

2. Have an initial conversation

We'll discuss what brings you to the service, what support you are looking for and how we might be able to help.

3. Work at your own pace

There is no expectation that you have everything figured out. Support should reflect your circumstances, priorities and goals.

A safe space without judgement

You may be worried about what someone will think if you talk about chemsex.

You might be concerned about being judged, misunderstood or told what to do.

We want you to know that:

· You will be treated with dignity and respect.

· Your experiences and choices will be listened to.

· You can talk openly about sex, drugs, relationships and mental health.

· You do not need to justify your sexual identity or experiences.

· Support will be guided by your needs and priorities.

We recognise that chemsex can intersect with identity, sexuality, community, relationships and belonging. These are all valid things to explore.

Looking after your sexual health

Your physical and sexual health are important parts of your overall wellbeing.

Depending on your needs, we can help you access information and support relating to:

• HIV and STI testing.

• HIV prevention, including PrEP and PEP.

• Safer sex and harm reduction.

• Consent and sexual boundaries.

• Sexual wellbeing and pleasure.

• Drug-related health risks.

• Referral to specialist drug and alcohol services.

You can ask questions without feeling embarrassed. There is no such thing as a question that is not worth asking.

You don't have to do this alone

Sometimes talking to someone who understands can make all the difference.

Whether you're thinking about making a change, looking for information, worried about someone close to you, or simply want a confidential conversation, we're here to help you explore your options.

There is no judgement. There is no pressure. Just support.

Contact: info@sexualhealthcentre.com