To follow.

Abstract

Psychotherapeutic perspectives on chemsex: Lived experience, meaning, and recovery

Many individuals who engage in chemsex do not initially present to traditional addiction services and may instead seek support through sexual health clinics or community organisations. As a result, much of the early response to chemsex has been developed within therapeutic and community settings working directly with affected populations.

This presentation explores the lived experience of chemsex and the psychological meanings that underpin sexualised drug use. Drawing on clinical practice and community based work, the talk will consider factors such as intimacy, connection, trauma, minority stress, and sexual identity that may shape engagement with chemsex. It will also discuss the challenges that individuals encounter when attempting to change patterns of chemsex, including stigma, shame, and the potential loss of social and sexual networks.

The session will outline psychotherapeutic approaches that have emerged in response to chemsex, including integrative and harm reduction frameworks that recognise the complex relationship between sexuality, identity, and substance use.