Navigating drug use, cessation, and recovery: a retrospective case notes review among sexual minority men at a community-based service in Singapore.

Background: In Singapore, where drug use is a highly stigmatized and criminalized issue, there is limited understanding of the challenges faced by individuals, particularly sexual minority men, in their journey towards recovery from substance dependence or addiction. This qualitative study aimed to investigate the driving forces behind drug use, the factors contributing to drug cessation, and the elements influencing the recovery process.

Methods: Data were extracted from clinical records provided by  The Greenhouse Community Services Limited between January 2020 to May 2022.

Exploring the role of trauma in underpinning sexualised drug use ('chemsex') among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men in Singapore.

Background: Sexualised drug use (SDU) has been identified as a major risk factor for HIV, as well as other mental health comorbidities among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). While multiple studies have been conducted on the topic, few have explored the role of trauma in underpinning experiences of SDU among substance use treatment-experienced GBMSM. This qualitative study investigates life histories of trauma, and proposes a framework to better situate the factors driving SDU among treatment-experienced GBMSM.