CHEX
CHEX – CHEMSEX COUNSELLING AND SUPPORT GROUPS
Chemsex refers to the practice of taking psychoactive substances with the aim of intensifying sexual experiences. This form of substance use has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, particularly amongst gay and bisexual men in urban scenes. However, the use of substances such as GHB/GBL, crystal meth or mephedrone carries significant health and mental health risks. As one of the first organisations in Berlin, Mann-O-Meter therefore offers a specialised counselling and self-help service for gay and bisexual men who practise chemsex or wish to find out more about using these substances responsibly. The service is aimed at MSM* (men* who have sex with men*) seeking support in dealing with this issue – whether for the purposes of prevention, to reflect on their own patterns of use and behaviour, or to address the issues of dependence and addiction.
Individual counselling – Personal support in a safe environment
During individual counselling sessions, our counsellors help those seeking advice to articulate and reflect on their own reasons and wishes regarding chemsex. In an accepting, non-judgemental environment, potential risk situations are discussed and ways to make self-determined decisions are worked out together. Our team provides advice on safer use practices, offers support with questions regarding the prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, and provides information on possible alternatives to chemsex and ways to overcome addiction. The focus is on the individual needs and personal circumstances of those seeking advice.
Group sessions – sharing experiences and support from like-minded people
The chemsex self-help groups at Mann-O-Meter offer weekly meetings for men who practise chemsex or are seeking support to reduce their use or achieve abstinence. These groups are partially facilitated, which means that, alongside open discussion amongst participants, professional guidance and structure are also provided. In a trusting environment, participants can share their experiences, learn from others and jointly develop strategies for a more functional approach to chemsex. Participation is open to all MSM* – both those who wish to gain control over their use and those who wish to live abstinently or are already doing so.
Focus on protection and risk minimisation
Our counselling services in the area of chemsex follow a harm reduction approach without making moral judgements. The counselling sessions are tailored to the real-life circumstances of MSM* who practise chemsex and to their individual goals. Our team provides the knowledge needed to assess risks – and, where necessary, to minimise them, for example through safer use techniques and preventive health measures. We also provide information on the mental and physical health risks associated with frequent chemsex use, such as the increased risk of addiction or mental health conditions.
A strong network of support services
In addition to chemsex counselling, we work closely with other organisations in Berlin that offer specialist support, including medical care, withdrawal support and psychosocial support. Should those seeking advice also require therapeutic support, we assist them in finding the right service. Our network enables us to address specifically the various aspects relevant to dealing with chemsex appropriately.
Safe and anonymous
All counselling sessions and group programmes are confidential and can be accessed anonymously if desired. Our experienced counsellors are bound by a duty of confidentiality and are trained to treat those seeking advice in a non-judgemental manner. In this way, we ensure that everyone finds the support they need to engage in chemsex in a self-determined and responsible manner.
You can find further information and contact details at mann-o-meter.de or in person at the Mann-O-Meter on Nollendorfplatz.
If you have any specific questions about chemsex, you can contact us at chex@mann-o-meter.de.