Crystal meth is highly dangerous, and avoiding it is the only way to be completely safe. If you’d like to quit or reduce use, you can find help here. If you choose not to quit, there are precautions users can take to reduce the risks.

Drink lots of water
Crystal meth causes dehydration, which can lead to health problems.

Plan ahead (before you get high) for sexual safety
Decide how and with whom you want to have sex. Make a commitment to disclose/ask about HIV/STD status and to use condoms. For bottoms, insert a Reality condom before getting high or leaving your house for sex. Pack plenty of condoms and lubricants. Put them where you won’t forget them once high. Having sex for a long period of time can cause condoms to break or dry out. Use more water-based lubricant than usual and check the condom to make sure it doesn’t fall off or break. Exchange it for a new one periodically (at least every hour). Pick up free condoms and look for our distribution baskets and materials at your favorite bar. You CAN play safely and use condoms even while you're high!

Free condoms, lube and safer sex supplies may be found at:

CDGLCC – www.cdglcc.org
Or call us at (518) 462-6138
332 Hudson Ave. Albany

IOOV – www.inourownvoices.org
Or call us at (518) 432-4188
245 Lark St. Albany

Planned Parenthood – www.plannedparenthood.org
or call us toll-free, 1-800-230-PLAN
Multiple locations – Schenectady, Cobleskill, Albany, Hudson, Troy,
Clifton Park, Glens Falls, Gloversville, Kingston, Latham, Saratoga
Springs, and more…

AIDS Council of Northeastern NY (Project Hope) - www.rubbaboyz.net
(518) 434-4686 Ext. 2323
927 Broadway, Albany

Damien Center - www.albanydamiencenter.org
12 South Lake Avenue, Albany NY

Whitney M. Young Health Services - www.wmyhealth.org
Located in Troy and Albany. See website for specifics.
(518) 465-4771

Keep Track of Time
Use an alarm clock or play a CD to remind you to check the condom or change activities.

Set Limits
Set limits for how much you will use and spend. Take only that amount with you, and leave your ATM card at home.

Keep Needles Clean
When injecting, use alcohol swabs, fresh cotton, new works and a fresh needle. For syringe exchange services, contact Project Reach at 716-845-0172 or visit www.doingitsafe.com.

Take Your Vitamins
Crystal meth use can deplete many vitamins and minerals. Consider a multi-vitamin that includes B-complex and vitamin C.

Eat
Eat whole grains and protein to replace nutrients.

Sleep
Make plans for where you will crash. Give your body time to rest. If unable to sleep, try meditation or simply closing your eyes.

Get Tested
Check out one of these local clinics to get tested for HIV and STD’s every three months.

Local places to get tested include:
You can get FREE and CONFIDENTIAL testing at CDGLCC (332 Hudson Ave., Albany) on the first Wednesday of every month from 6 pm to 9 pm.

Outreach services can be found at these local bars/clubs:

Club Phoenix
Waterworks Pub
Oh Bar
Rocks