Why is crystal meth so common in the gay community?

While the LGBT community has had a long history of drug use, the rise of meth usage across the country and here in Florida has continued to grow at an alarming rate, especially among gay men. Meth has known to be a party drug within the gay circuits since the late 1990s. While there are a variety of reasons as to why someone might start using the drug, for gay meth addicts, there are often similar themes. 

Here are some reasons why crystal meth is so common in the gay community:

Meth is introduced as a party and sex drug

For most users, meth would have likely been introduced within a club or party setting. In the gay community, sex parties have become a regular occurrence where guests are treated to free meth and the promise of sexual escapades with anonymous strangers. Combining a hallucinogenic drug and sex (known as chemsex) is thought to boost a user’s sexual experience due to the increased levels of dopamine and sex drive. Meth has become more widely available on gay dating apps, such as Tinder and Grindr, making it easier for users to access the drug through party invites to chemsex parties and meet other users. Without meth, many users may fear that sober sex will not match their performance and pleasure like they would experience when under the influence. As a result, gay addicts may find it challenging to go sober as sex itself can become a trigger.

Pressure to feel like they’re part of the gay community 

For gay men who experience internalized homophobia and shame, the unrealistic standards of sex and beauty within the gay community can intensify their negative views on themselves and their position within the community. Continuing to take crystal meth is not only serve as a distraction to help cope with the trauma but also validate a user’s position within the gay community. Because crystal meth has become so popular within the gay party circuit, gay meth users will sometimes feel pressure to take the drug to desperately ‘stay’ in the gay scene.

How does meth use impact sexual behaviors in men who have sex with men?

Meth use can have a profound impact on the sexual behaviors of men who have sex with men. It is often associated with engaging in high-risk sexual activities and an increased number of sexual partners. Additionally, men who have sex with men and use meth are at a heightened risk of developing serious health issues such as HIV and sexually transmitted diseases. Furthermore, meth use among this demographic can lead to various physical health complications including dental problems, decreased bone mass, weight loss, heart problems, stroke, brain damage, and more.

What are the common signs of methamphetamine use?

Common signs of methamphetamine use include engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors, having multiple sexual partners, developing serious health issues such as HIV and sexually transmitted diseases, experiencing dental problems, bone mass loss, weight loss, heart attacks, stroke, brain damage, and other physical complications. Furthermore, mental health effects may manifest as anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disturbances, depression, irritability, poor impulse control, paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions.

Self-medicate their underlying issues and trauma

Gay men are often a target of rejection, violence, and oppression. As a result, many gay men develop severe mental and physical health issues that go unresolved. Those living with HIV may also experience severe symptoms of depression and anxiety. Many addicts, both cishet and queer, typically fall into a cycle of addiction to escape the harsh realities of their life. Taking hallucinogenic drugs, like meth, can increase dopamine levels, which counteracts depression and anxiety. Gay addicts will likely become reliant on meth to self-medicate and cope with their daily struggles. 

We hope you have received some insight as to why crystal meth is so common in the gay community. Breaking a meth addiction can be challenging, especially if you are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. Inspire Recovery is an LGBT rehab that specializes in treatments that cater to the unique experience of addiction within the gay community. If you or a loved one needs help with their meth addiction, call us today on 561-899-6088 for a free consultation.