I Only Use GHB For Sex, When Is It A Problem

I only use GHB when I have sex. So when does it actually become a problem?

Using GHB or GBL during sex doesn't automatically mean that you're addicted. But there are changes in your relationship with GHB that may be worth paying attention to.

We talk about:

• G-ing out and why serious reactions can become normalised in some Chemsex environments • Loss of consciousness, convulsions and other signs that require urgent medical attention • Consent and the sexual vulnerability that comes with being unconscious • GHB beginning to move beyond sex into clubbing, holidays, socialising or everyday activities • Sex beginning to feel increasingly dependent on GHB • Difficulty maintaining the boundaries you set around your use • Increasing frequency and loss of control • Physical dependence and why GHB/GBL withdrawal can require specialist medical care

I've worked clinically with men who have been sexually assaulted or raped after G-ing out. An unconscious person cannot consent to sex — regardless of whether he consented earlier, voluntarily took GHB, or went somewhere intending to have sex.

Something becoming familiar within a particular environment doesn't necessarily make it safe.

CHEMSEX FREEDOM™

If you're beginning to question your own relationship with GHB, GBL or Chemsex, you don't have to wait until you've hit rock bottom before doing something about it.

Chemsex Freedom is my private, structured 90-day online programme for gay and bisexual men who want to understand and change their relationship with Chemsex.

You don't have to identify as an addict.

You don't have to have decided that permanent abstinence is your goal.

You may want to stop, reduce how often you're using, regain greater control, understand why sex and drugs have become so connected, or simply work out what you actually want going forward.

Across the programme we explore areas including:

• Why you use and what Chemsex gives you • Triggers, cravings and urges • Boundaries and repeating patterns • Sex and sober sex • Dating, intimacy and relationships • Self-esteem and identity • Building a more fulfilling life beyond Chemsex

The programme is private, online and designed to fit around your own schedule.

www.chemsexfreedom.com

NOT SURE WHETHER YOUR CHEMSEX USE IS ACTUALLY A PROBLEM?

It won't diagnose you or tell you that you're an addict. It's designed to help you look more honestly at your own relationship with Chemsex and decide whether something may be changing.

IMPORTANT

Chemsex Freedom is not a substitute for emergency care, medical treatment, detoxification or specialist drug services.

If someone becomes unconscious, has a seizure or convulsions, is vomiting while unresponsive, or isn't breathing normally after taking GHB/GBL, seek emergency medical help.

If you are using GHB/GBL very frequently, waking up needing it, or experiencing symptoms when you don't take it, seek medical advice rather than suddenly stopping on your own. GHB/GBL withdrawal can be medically dangerous.

You don't have to wait for something catastrophic to happen before asking:

“Is GHB beginning to occupy more of my life than I actually want it to?”