Methamphetamine is increasingly used in conjunction with other drugs (chemsex) by men who have sex with men to intensify sexual encounters. By releasing torrents of dopamine, meth heightens sexual desire while numbing negative emotions and lowering inhibitions about sex and intimacy. With consistent use, meth hijacks sexual arousal and fuses sexual behavior with an intoxicated drug state, frequently resulting in a persistent loss of sexual arousal when someone attempts to stop using the drug. Meth’s damage to the dopamine transport system requires nearly two years to heal, creating long-term impulsivity, drug cravings and anhedonia. These features require specialized clinical approaches to help meth-using clients address relapse risk, manage mood, and promote their sexual recovery. This workshop explores these issues and presents clinical strategies to assist clients develop healthy, drug-free sex and intimacy.

Objectives:
- Understand meth’s impact on the body and brain, including the fusion of meth intoxication and sexual behavior.
- Understand the clinician’s role in promoting a sex-positive approach, including reducing shame and stigma.
- Identify practical steps to help recovering meth users untangle drug use, sex and intimacy, thereby reclaiming healthy sexual behaviors and relationships.