Choosing the ‘Normal’ Life: Al on coming out after marriage, fatherhood & grief

Al speaks to Rich Clarke about growing up feeling different. Not just because he was gay, but because he was half Chinese in a mostly white school, where he was bullied and made to feel like an outsider.In the shadow of the AIDS crisis, with strict parents and no one to turn to, Al stayed silent. He chose what felt like the “normal” life: marriage, children, and hiding who he really was.It wasn’t until his 40s, after the death of his mum and a mental health crisis, that Al found the courage to come out and begin again.📱 Follow us on Instagram and TikTok: @alwaysmepodcast💬 To share your story, email: [email protected]SUPPORT SERVICES LGBTQ+ SupportSwitchboard – LGBTQ+ Helpline • A confidential helpline for LGBTQ+ people to talk about sexuality, gender identity, and more.• Phone: 0800 0119 100• Website: switchboard.lgbtStonewall• Offers support and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families.• Website: stonewall.org.ukOpen Table Network• Phone: 07501753618• Website: opentable.lgbtMental Health & Suicide PreventionSamaritans• For anyone in distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide.• Phone: 116 123 (Free, 24/7)• Website: samaritans.orgMind• Provides advice and support for anyone experiencing a mental health problem.• Phone: 0300 123 3393• Website: mind.org.ukPAPYRUS – Prevention of Young Suicide• Support for people under 35 experiencing suicidal thoughts, and for those concerned about someone else.• Phone: 0800 068 41 41• Website: papyrus-uk.orgShout• A free, confidential mental health text support service.• Text: SHOUT to 85258 (24/7, free text service)• Website: giveusashout.org