Coming out isn't always easy but being gay can be a source of pride and joy for so many in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Louis Hanson is one of Australia's most well-known and beloved queer content creators but growing up, he knew gay = bad. To convince others he was straight, he forced himself to abandon any hobbies or traits that would give him away as gay.

In this episode, Louis shares with host Sean Szeps about how he hid himself as a teenager, living through a 'second adolescence' after high school, how the shame of suppression manifested in binge drinking (and the night that forced him to get help) and how he's learned to love being gay.

If this episode brought up any feelings for you or you want more information, these resources may help you:

QLife: Call 1800 184 527 for a free phone service every day from 3pm – midnight. Visit their website au.mimecast.com/s/yVydCr81gOcnM45lSQ0VBB?domain=qlife.org.au">www.qlife.org.au for a free webchat

Minus18: Australia’s LGBTQIA+ charity. Follow them on social @minus18youth or visit their website on au.mimecast.com/s/KnRgCvl1mVuL1rDziwuAeD?domain=minus18.org.au">www.minus18.org.au for resources, events and training for your school or workplace

Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 for 24-hour crisis support

If you want to be a part of the Come Out Wherever You Are community, you can follow us on Instagram:

@comeoutwhereveryouare

@seanszeps

@louishanson

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