A hidden crisis is unfolding in the UK, where chemsex – the use of drugs such as GHB/GBL, crystal meth, and ketamine to enhance sexual experiences – is driving a surge in addiction and deaths. Analysis of Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures by Gay Times suggests up to 1,000 people have died from possible chemsex-related harms over the past decade. Addiction specialists at Rehabs UK are sounding the alarm over a critical gap in support for those grappling with this complex, dual-layered addiction.

In London, the Metropolitan Police Service reported 363 chemsex-related offences in 2023, a sharp rise from just 19 in 2018. The force also recorded an average of three chemsex-linked deaths per month last year, with fears that 2024 could see the highest figures on record, according to an ITV News investigation. The London Ambulance Service suspects at least one call-out per day is connected to chemsex drugs, underscoring the scale of the issue in the capital.

Unlike traditional substance dependency, chemsex addiction intertwines drug use with compulsive sexual behaviour, creating unique challenges for recovery. Jakana Rita, a BACP-accredited therapist at Rehabs UK, explains: “The difficulty is that drug use and sexual behaviour are so entwined in chemsex that it becomes its own standalone addiction. Yet, many fall through the gaps because support services still treat them as separate issues. We need to recognise chemsex as its own cultural phenomenon within addiction.”

The role of shame and stigma

Shame and stigma exacerbate the crisis, particularly within the queer community, where chemsex is prevalent. Estimates suggest 3–29% of men who have sex with men engage in chemsex. Queer collective Duckie recently hosted “Rat Park,” an event series to raise awareness about chemsex. Host Scottee said in an interview: “There is a major issue with chemsex in the queer community, where people gather and use drugs, and associate that with sex. It’s become a bit of a problem for people where addiction has become very loud.”

Scottee highlighted the deeper societal factors at play: “For all of the conversations that we could talk about chemsex and addiction, there seems to be two big narratives that are coming up, which are ageing and shame. Shame seems to be ever present.” Rita adds: “Chemsex can deeply damage self-worth while creating dangerous physical risks. Many who engage in it struggle with low self-esteem or past trauma, using it as an escape. Recovery starts with recognising these patterns and rebuilding intimacy in healthier ways.”

The progression from occasional chemsex to addiction is fuelled by the drugs’ ability to heighten sexual pleasure, creating a powerful association that is hard to break. The anticipation of this combined experience can itself become addictive, entrenching the behaviour further.

Strategies for recovery

Experts stress the need for integrated treatment that addresses both drug use and sexual behaviour simultaneously. Key approaches include:

• Therapeutic interventions. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and counselling can help individuals address self-worth and emotional triggers driving chemsex addiction.
• Support groups. LGBT-specific meetings at UK Narcotics Anonymous (UKNA) or Alcoholics Anonymous UK (AAUK) offer community and shared experiences. Organisations like Controlling Chemsex and You are Loved provide additional free support.
• Healthy alternatives. Developing coping mechanisms, such as engaging in fulfilling activities and forming connections outside chemsex circles, is vital for sustained recovery.

Chemsex addiction often strains personal relationships, requiring open communication and patience to rebuild trust and intimacy. Rehabs UK urges policymakers and healthcare providers to expand specialised support to address this growing crisis. Rita emphasises: “We need services that understand the unique interplay of chemsex’s physical and emotional components.”

For those struggling, help is available. Contact your GP or Rehabs UK treatment advisors for guidance. With chemsex-related harms on the rise, experts warn that inaction could lead to even greater loss of life.