A global perspective on the emotions associated with chemsex practice to better support the community

Background : Chemsex is defined as the use of specific psychoactive substances, namely crystal meth, GHB, and ketamine, among men of sexual diversity, trans people, and non-binary people. Motivations for engaging in chemsex vary, but primarily involve sexual pleasure, socializing with new people, as well as managing difficult emotions. Chemsex is also associated with various repercussions on physical health, mental health, and sexual health.

 

The motivations and repercussions of chemsex can be considered as affective experiences. However, current literature on chemsex predominantly focuses on two emotions, namely shame and pleasure. The objective of this presentation is to share the emotions associated with the practice of chemsex, but also to gain a better understanding of the individual and community implications of emotions on this practice.

 

Methods : 11 people engaged in chemsex participated in a photovoice project as part of a social work thesis conducted at the Université du Québec à Montréal. Participants took photographs to depict their emotions associated with the practice of chemsex, in addition to participating in two research interviews. The data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

 

Results : The participants brought significant nuances to the emotions associated with the practice of chemsex, discussing not only pleasure and shame, but also loneliness, disgust, fear, and hope. The results demonstrate that these emotions are closely tied to individuals substances use trajectories and that an awareness of the full range of emotions facilitates recovery and harm reduction efforts.

 

Conclusion : Understanding the emotions associated with the practice of chemsex, beyond the dichotomy of shame/pleasure, ensures optimal support in intervening with people directly affected by chemsex.