First off—I’m not a doctor, therapist, or expert, just someone who’s been around the block and seen a thing or two. If you’re concerned about someone, here are some common signs that might suggest they’re involved in chemsex. Let’s keep it informative but with a touch of humour to lighten the mood.
Physical Signs
- Running on No Sleep – Up all night, possibly for days. They make night owls look lazy.
- Permanently Exhausted Pigeon – Big yawns, dark circles, and an overall “I haven’t seen a bed in ages” vibe.
- Disappearing Act – Suddenly “too busy” for family, friends, or any kind of social plans.
- Sleeping Like They’re in a Coma – Extreme fatigue, nodding off mid-conversation.
- Face Shape-Shifting – Changes in facial structure, sunken features, or odd skin discolouration, especially from the neck up.
- Eyes Like Dinner Plates – Pupils so huge they could land planes.
- Weight Loss – And not the “hitting the gym” kind.
- Pale as a Pint of Milk – Not exactly a picture of health.
- Sweet Tooth on Overdrive – Suddenly hoovering up chocolate and Haribos like a child let loose in a sweet shop.
- Suspiciously Strange Smell – A distinct chemical odour, often compared to cat wee (not exactly Chanel No. 5).
Behavioural Changes
- 24/7 Grindr Mode – Hours and hours online, way beyond casual scrolling.
- Mood Swings at 100mph – One minute they’re buzzing, the next they’re snapping, then they’re crying—on repeat.
- Reality? What’s That? – Depersonalisation, paranoia, and conversations that seem completely disconnected from the real world.
- Anxiety, Phobias, or Bipolar-Like Symptoms – Extreme highs and lows that come out of nowhere.
- Unexplained A&E Trips – Frequent visits to the hospital or sudden doctor’s appointments.
- Gone Off-Grid – Slow replies, disappearing for days, and generally hard to pin down.
- Run-Ins with the Police – Let’s just say they’re not chatting about the weather.
Other Red Flags
- Cash Disappearing Faster Than a Friday Paycheque – Constant ATM withdrawals with no clear explanation.
- Cuts, Scabs, or Mysterious Wounds – Slow healing injuries or marks that keep appearing.
- Water, Water Everywhere – Guzzling litres to counteract drug effects.
- Word Vomit & Confusion – Talking absolute nonsense without realising.
If this sounds like someone you know, it might be worth reaching out. Approach with care, not judgement—people often need support, not shame. And remember, help is available, even if they don’t realise they need it yet.
