The emotional, spiritual, mental and physical conditions of gay men all come equally into play in the struggle to maintain good health and well being. A healthy lifestyle and mental well being are key to successfully negotiating situations that place gay men at an increased risk of HIV transmission.

The Gay Men’s Health Fact Sheet Series highlights some key areas of gay men’s lives. Its goal is to help gay men and their friends, lovers and family members start their own conversations about healthy living.

This fact sheet discusses the use of drugs and alcohol in gay men’s communities from a harm reduction approach. It describes what harm reduction is, gives tips to gay men on how to recognize substance/addiction problems, and finally provides advice on how to deal with, handle, and get help with regards to substance use and abuse.