Anthony Kavanagh speaks to Rich Clarke about the hidden cost of becoming Kavana - a 90s pop star forced to hide his sexuality in an industry where being openly gay felt impossible.From knowing he was gay at 10 to creating a public persona that masked his truth, Anthony reflects on how years of secrecy and self-denial fed a spiral of anxiety, shame, and addiction.This is a conversation about fame, identity, addiction, and the long journey back to self-acceptance.Anthony’s memoir Pop Scars is out now. 📱 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.orgAlcohol supportNHS Alcohol support• Information about alcohol addiction & where to get support• Website: nhs.uk/live-well/alcohol-advice/alcohol-support