Finding support for chemsex and substance use requires navigating a strict legal environment. Understanding the law is the first step to staying safe.
⚖️ The Legal Context
The possession of illicit drugs is a criminal offense in Ukraine. There is no legally protected "personal use" allowance that shields you from police action.
Because drug possession is heavily criminalized, interacting with state emergency services or police regarding drug use carries significant legal risk. Many gay and bisexual men hesitate to call an ambulance for an overdose due to fear of police involvement.
🚑 Emergency Routing
If someone is overdosing or in a medical emergency:
- Call 103 (Ambulance) or 112.
- What to say: Describe the physical symptoms (e.g., "unconscious," "not breathing," "seizure"). You do not have to volunteer that drugs are involved over the phone.
- The Reality: Ambulance crews are medical professionals, but in cases of suspected illegal drug overdoses, police are sometimes notified. Prioritize saving a life, but be aware of your surroundings and remove illicit substances from the immediate area if possible.
🫂 Local Support Services
For non-emergency support, harm reduction advice, and clean equipment, rely on community NGOs. They operate confidentially and without police involvement.
| Organization | What they offer | Contact/Location |
|---|---|---|
| Alliance Global | Harm reduction kits (clean syringes, pipes), PrEP/PEP referrals, peer counseling. | Hubs in Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa, and other major cities. |
| 100% Life | Comprehensive social and medical support, primarily focused on HIV but deeply experienced in harm reduction. | Nationwide. |
| HPLGBT | Advocacy and targeted chemsex research/support for MSM. | Online and community events. |
📉 GHB/GBL Dependency
If you are physically dependent on G (GHB/GBL) and need to withdraw, do not attempt to stop abruptly. Medical supervision is required to manage life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
- Where to go: You will need to access a state narcological dispensary (наркологічний диспансер) or a private addiction clinic.
- The Trade-off: Private clinics are expensive but offer confidentiality. State dispensaries are free or low-cost but may require official registration as a drug user, which can have long-term legal and employment implications. Consult an NGO social worker first to plan the safest route for detoxification.
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