A peer support community for gay, bisexual, and queer men built from shared experience — not clinical distance.
Our Beginning
Strength Over Speed (SOS) began in 2005 as a group of peers who graduated from other crystal meth recovery programs but felt they needed something more. At that time, there were few options for queer men who wanted alternatives to 12-step programs or treatment center aftercare groups.
So, with the help of other supporters in the queer community, SOS was created as a peer support group for gay and bisexual men in recovery from using crystal meth.
SOS meetings are open discussion groups where people can share about their individual paths of recovery, ask questions, and have an open dialogue. This open format can be a welcome alternative for people who don’t connect with the 12-step format where cross-talk is discouraged.
What makes SOS different?
Unlike many recovery formats, SOS is an open-discussion group. There are no “no cross-talk” rules — you can ask questions, respond to others, and have real conversations about your recovery journey.
Not either/or. Many SOS members also attend 12-step and other recovery meetings. SOS doesn’t compete with other programs — it’s an additional layer of support.
Our Approach
Peer Support
We believe peer support is a foundational part of life in recovery. As peers in recovery, we share openly about our individual journeys and how we overcome challenges.
No Single Path
We do not promote one path of recovery over another. Every person’s journey is unique and valid. We hold space for all approaches.
Open Dialogue
We engage in real discussion around issues of sex, sexual identity, HIV and other STIs, physical and emotional health, loneliness, relationships, housing, and building a new life.
Inclusive Community
SOS welcomes gay, bisexual, and queer men and male-identified individuals, regardless of HIV status or where they are in their recovery journey.
Anti-Stigma
We help each other diffuse the stigma around methamphetamine use and show that recovery is possible — and that we can build meaningful lives and relationships.
Volunteer-Led
SOS is entirely volunteer-run. Everyone involved has lived experience. We show up for each other because we know how much that matters.
“Everyone’s recovery is unique… Build your own recovery journey by focusing on who you were, who you are, and who you want to become.”
The SOS Community
In Our Groups
In SOS groups, we engage in honest discussion around all kinds of issues related to meth addiction and recovery. There’s no topic that’s off limits.
We talk openly about:
No sign-up required. Just show up to any meeting. You don’t have to be in recovery or even sure you want to quit — all are welcome.
See Meeting ScheduleHave a question? Send us a message anytime.