Party and play is a new term for some and an old and familiar one for others. What is party and play, or PnP as some folk have coined it? It’s sex with drugs. A large chunk of the population, regardless of sexual orientation, can say that they’ve engaged in sexual activity while under the influence of a substance, but party and play is a bit more nuanced than that. It is a term that typically refers to gay and queer men who are using crystal meth. PnP has intention behind it. This isn’t going to a bar or a rave, indulging in a substance, and ending up in bed with someone. PnP involves intentionally using crystal meth to have sex with someone.

Know Yourself

Before deciding to wade into the foray of the party and play, it’s a good idea to have a good understanding of all that it entails. It also helps to have a clear and realistic view of yourself. If you already struggle with substance abuse or have struggled in the past with substances or sex, it may not be in your best interest to engage. A previous gay rehab is an indicator that your recovery and sobriety are a top priority. Ask yourself what about PnP interests you. Are you lonely? Is your sex life boring? Are drugs necessary for you to feel comfortable having sex? How is this going to enhance my life now and later?

Crystal Meth

As meth is the preferred drug to party and play with, it’s important to understand what it is and the risks involved with using it. Crystal meth is sometimes called meth, T, Tina, or ice. It’s usually smoked in a pipe, but it is also snorted, injected, swallowed as a pill, or anally absorbed. The way it is ingested will determine how quickly and strongly the effects are felt. Meth is a strong stimulant that can keep users awake for very long periods of time while leading to heightened sexual sensitivity, however, it does decrease the ability to obtain and sustain an erection; so, many party and players will add a drug called G or GHB to the mix to level out the meth and achieve an erection.

Safety First

Party and play may sound intriguing and fun to you, but it can be dangerous. Doing too much of a substance, not taking care of your body’s needs, or being sexually active with someone with an STD can have disastrous or even fatal consequences. Before getting high, it is important to set the parameters of what you want and don’t want, what you’re comfortable with, and whether or not condoms are desired. It also helps to set limits for how long you’ll engage, how much meth and G will be taken, and where you want to be. Taking care of the administrative stuff on the front end could make for a bad PnP experience.

Playing with substances is risky business, so it’s imperative that you take proper precautions and take care of your well-being accordingly. It’s not as hard as most people think it is to fall into addiction. There’s no one point where recreational drug use turns into addiction, so be mindful and honest about how you’re reacting and how often you’re using. Stay safe.