Welcome to our comprehensive e-course on working with people who engage in chemsex.
This course serves as a starting point for acquiring in-depth knowledge about the historical roots of chemsex, the motivations behind it, and the challenges that might arise.
By the end of the course, you will be equipped with the skills and insights needed to offer structured and non-judgemental services.
This course is intended for anyone interested in making a positive impact - and can be your stepping stone towards an informed approach to supporting people who participate in chemsex. This course is intended to encourage positive health practices and is therefore focused on the impact of chemsex on the physical and mental health of people who engage in chemsex.
The concept of ‘Harm Reduction’ in relation to chemsex or drugs is a concept that seeks to provide non-judgemental educational information in order to minimise the risks faced by people who engage in chemsex or use substances. It does not in any way intend to promote chemsex or encourage the use of drugs. Although the primary aim of this course is to promote safe sex and encourage a healthy physical, sexual and mental lifestyle, especially for young people in Sri Lanka, the content can be helpful to teenagers and adults as well, given that comprehensive sex education is not available in Sri Lanka.
The concept of ‘Harm Reduction’ in relation to chemsex or drugs is a concept that seeks to provide non-judgemental educational information in order to minimise the risks faced by people who engage in chemsex or use substances. It does not in any way intend to promote chemsex or encourage the use of drugs.
Although the primary aim of this course is to promote safe sex and encourage a healthy physical, sexual and mental lifestyle, especially for young people in Sri Lanka, the content can also be helpful to teenagers and adults, given that comprehensive sex education is not available in Sri Lanka.
A taste of what we'll cover:
What is Chemsex?
In this module you will learn about the history of chemsex, how it can be defined, and how that definition varies in different contexts. You'll also have the opportunity to address some FAQs around chemsex participation.
The Impact of Chems and Sex
This section addresses some of the stigma around chemsex participation. You'll learn that chemsex in itself is not objectively problematic, and take an opportunity to explore some of the reasons for chemsex participation.
Issues Associated with Chemsex
This chapter will allow you to categorise the types of issues commonly experienced by people who participate in chemsex. You'll have the opportunity to begin to design harm-reduction interventions to support people who engage in chemsex.
While participants (outreach workers, volunteers, health sector officers) are encouraged to interact with people who engage in chemsex without judgement or any preconceived notions, please keep in mind that engaging in chemsex is risky behaviour. This module offers safe methods to reduce harm, among people who engage in chemsex. Please be mindful of the laws related to drug use in Sri Lanka.