From Sexuality to Addiction: Jay Learned to Mask Who He Was

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Jay grew up in Geelong as a young gay dancer, supported at home but often made to feel different outside of it. His early experiences of bullying, trauma and assault shaped the way he saw himself, and how drinking and substances became a way to feel confident and finally accepted.

After moving to Melbourne to study dance professionally, Jay found himself deep in the party scene, but what began as partying eventually escalated into harder substance use and reached a point where his family feared for his life.

Jay speaks openly about hospitalisations, rehab, the moment he saw his dad cry for the first time and the long process of rebuilding his life. Now three and a half years sober, Jay works in the same detox facility he once went through himself.

Jay’s Instagram: @jxytaylor

Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.

This episode contains discussions of sexual assault, addiction, drug use, mental health, suicide and recovery. If this episode raises anything for you, please reach out to a trusted support person or contact a crisis support service in your area.

The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015

https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline

Lifeline Australia provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14

https://www.lifeline.org.au

1800RESPECT provides support for people impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence and abuse. Call 1800 737 732

https://www.1800respect.org.au

Creator & Host- Julia Rangiheuea

Creative Director- Beaudene Perussich

Thumbnail- Jake Abernethy

In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.