Gay men are subject to social pressures to maintain high standards of safer sex practices. Men use condoms because they feel they should, or because in moments of rational reflection it makes sense, and not because “safe sex is hot sex.” Some gay and bisexual men make a conscious effort most of the time to use condoms, and then at other times give up on restraining themselves, and indulge in what they meant to avoid-having sex without condoms.

Over the past four years, the staff of the CAMPsafe program has seen many gay men drink a lot, or drop a hit of E, or go to a cruisy bar, because they know that it will allow them to move from a state of “reality” to one of “escape.” The staff realizes guys are here to have fun and that sex while using drugs or alcohol allows some people to loosen up more easily and become less inhibited. Howard Brown Health Center in Chicago has provided some pointers on how some of the more popular drugs can interfere with our abilities to make sound choices about sex.

Alcohol: Alcohol loosens inhibitions and clouds judgment. It is also a depressant, which makes you feel like you need to be with someone which in turn increases our desire for sexual contact.

Cocaine/Crack: Cocaine/crack is a stimulant that makes you feel more alert, sexy, confident and sometimes paranoid. Too much confidence can be a dangerous thing especially when your judgment is impaired and you are having sex with multiple partners.

Ecstacy: Ecstacy is a stimulant, but can act like a drug which causes a state of happiness and relaxation. Sensations are enhanced and many people report feeling less inhibited and very sexy with fewer thoughts for caution or concern. Safer sex can take a back seat to an overwhelming sexual drive.

Crystal: People say that this drug can make you feel invincible. It makes you more alert and highly aroused. This leads to a false belief that HIV/AIDS can’t touch you.

Poppers: Poppers may make sex more enjoyable but can mask the pain that might be causing tears to your anal linings. Using poppers with Viagra can be deadly.

These drugs can impair your ability to make good decisions about sex. If you are going to use drugs and have sex, know your limits and try to remember to Have fun, Play smart, and CAMPsafe. Only you have the power to prevent yourself from becoming infected while you are here in Rehoboth. Remember, while you are on vacation, HIV is not. Protect yourself, protect your lover and protect your community.

If you would like more information or have questions about safer sex and drug use, call CAMP Rehoboth at 302-227-5620. Staff is available for free sexual health counseling.

CAMPsafe would like to thank the Howard Brown Center in Chicago for taking the time to talk with our staff about sex and drugs. Also, we would like to thank them for use of their Men’s Guide to Alcohol, Drugs and Sex brochure.