Chemsex surge in Catalonia fueled by dating apps and drug normalization

Chemsex, a colloquial term describing sexual activity under the influence of drugs, predominantly among men who have sex with men, is increasingly common in Catalonia.

The HIV unit at Barcelona's Hospital Clínic is monitoring approximately 300 individuals who engage in chemsex.

Experts from the hospital warn that the practice carries significant risks, including addiction and a variety of mental, physical, and sexual health issues.

Several factors are driving this rise. The popularity of dating apps like Grindr and Catalonia's status as a prominent gay-friendly travel destination have facilitated its growth.

However, understanding the complexity of this phenomenon requires examining the stigma faced by the LGBTQ+ community.

"Historically, the LGBTQ+ community has experienced significant prejudice and rejection within a heteronormative society, in addition to living with hidden sexuality," says María Martínez-Rebollar, chemsex expert at Hospital Clínic.

Javier, a patient receiving treatment at the clinic, also points to the "normalization" of drug use within the LGBTQ+ community as a major contributor.  

"The drugs are cheap, very affordable, and it has become normalized in the homosexual community. New generations see this as the only way to get pleasure and have fun because they do not know any other way," he told the Catalan News Agency (ACN).

Chemsex typically involves drug use prior to sexual activity, with methamphetamine (crystal meth), mephedrone, and GHB/GBL (commonly referred to as "G") among the most frequently used substances.

A 2017 European survey identified Spain as one of the countries with the highest rates of chemsex, with 14% of men who have sex with men reporting engagement in the practice within the past year.

Although no more recent data is available, experts are confident that upcoming studies will reveal a sharp increase in prevalence.

"Those who practice chemsex confirm that it is becoming more common. Previously, finding others who engaged in it was difficult; now, it has become a widespread practice," Martínez-Rebollar explains.

While initially pursued as a means of seeking pleasure or escaping inhibitions, chemsex carries substantial health risks.

Drug use during sexual activity significantly increases the likelihood of addiction, unprotected sex, and sexually transmitted infections.

The mental health impacts are equally concerning. Medical professionals warn that chemsex can exacerbate anxiety, lead to psychosis, and foster dependency. Between 20% and 30% of users report struggling to engage in sexual activity without the aid of drugs.

"Many organizations are working to warn about the risks of substances. We need to reach more people, but there will always be stigma," Javier adds.