Crystal is a drug that stimulates or excites the brain and the central nervous system. It can be snorted, smoked or injected.

Because crystal is a stimulant, it can increase users’ sense of alertness, making them feel sharper and more awake. In larger doses, it can even create a sense of euphoria and invincibility. Many people use crystal because it helps them overcome fears and inhibitions, allowing them to engage in behaviors they would otherwise avoid. More info...

Check out the NEW Knowcrystal.org website! Knowcrystal.org is a community-based web site providing a range of factual information on the impact of methamphetamine on gay and bisexual men. The site includes a range of resources and information targeting users, those who may be at-risk for using as well as resources for family and friends of gay and bisexual who use.

The Center’s Behavioral Health Services department announces the formation of a new, FREE service for HIV + community members: ‘PNP’: Preventing New Problems Group, with Dr. Michael Majeski, a support group designed to help HIV + community members with substance use problems, especially crystal meth, develop a set of skills that support living drug free. Groups will be held weekly on Fridays, 6:00pm - 7:30 pm. For more information please contact Dr. Michael Majeski 619.260.6380, X116.

The links below provided by Stepping Stone of San Diego. Eat, Drink, Sleep: Rule Book for Crystal Users How Crystal Meth Affects the body Thinking About Quitting Crystal or Reducing your Use? *Click on any image to see a large version of Stepping Stone of San Diego's past harm reduction campaign. For more information related to meth use in the LGBT community: Join Together's article on how the "Gay Community Fights Growing Meth Problem" Crystal Methamphetamine in San Diego: A Report to the LGBT Community prepared by Jeffrey Wynne of Stepping Stone

Crystal has some serious downsides: it can make users edgy, irritable, fearful, paranoid, aggressive and even violent. People who have used a lot of crystal have reported severe levels of depression when “coming down” off of the high the drug produces. Some of the biggest risks from using crystal include the following:

• Loss of judgment. Because crystal can reduce or even eliminate inhibitions, some users engage in risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex with multiple partners, increasing the risk of HIV transmission.
• Health risks. Use of crystal can lead to dehydration and exhaustion. Repeated use of crystal can damage the lungs, the liver, the kidneys, and the heart. It can also lead to tooth decay and tooth loss. If use involves shared needles, there is also a risk of HIV and hepatitis C transmission. Overdose is always a very real danger.
• Mental health risks. Repeated use can lead to erratic behavior, fear, anxiety, and even paranoia. It can also lead to severe mood swings, including explosive levels of anger and crippling levels of depression. Large doses can even lead to psychosis.
• Addiction. Crystal is a highly addictive drug. What starts out as recreational use can very quickly spiral out of control, leading to loss of friends, partners/spouses, and jobs.