24. YUL Plurality-Pt. 1 — Hey Ally & Michael

Montréal Host Éric introduces Ally and Michael to center gender-diverse voices in the chemsex conversation. Éric connects his drug use to his non-binary identity, discussing how gender dysphoria and a lack of affirming care can make substances a survival mechanism. Michael explains using chemsex to cope with transition-related isolation and to disconnect from bodily anxiety.  Ally shares their journey from a religious background to Canada, where chemsex initially offered an escape from shame to explore identity. Together, they reflect on substance use as a temporary "solution" to a lack of validation, eventually realizing how these experiences helped them identify their authentic selves and what they needed to live truly.  If you’re looking for support, please explore our list of Chemsex resources/services.