A new report on chemsex by London Friend and LGBT HERO highlights that mental health issues, including trauma and isolation, are the primary concerns associated with chemsex among LGBTQ+ individuals in London.
Key findings from a chemsex survey of 334 LGBTQ+ individuals include:
- Four in ten have never sought support.
- Half are unaware of chemsex-specific services.
- Mainstream services often lack understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences.
- Shame and stigma act as significant barriers to access.
The findings reveal that many in our community rely on drugs to cope with our mental health struggles, yet barriers like stigma and a lack of awareness about chemsex-specific services prevent us from seeking help.
Key statistics show that 40% of LGBTQ+ Londoners who use drugs have never sought support, and half are unaware of available chem-sex specific services. Many believe mainstream drug and alcohol programs lack understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences, creating feelings of exclusion.
The report emphasizes the urgent need for LGBTQ+-affirming, mental health-focused, and peer-led support services. It also calls for better integration and coordination among healthcare providers to address the complex needs of our queer community, reflecting the realities of our LGBTQ+ lives.
