Connecting with others is one of the primal needs that we have as human beings. Our brain is wired for connections. Without connections, we become unwell. Because of shame and poor self-esteem/self-worth, Queer people have a hard time connecting with others meaningfully because connecting meaningfully requires “showing up” and therefore being vulnerable. Instead, we walk around with our armour because we don’t want to get hurt. We can’t have both: keep the armour on, and be in a meaningful connection.

For optimal well-being, as Queer individuals we need to learn to have connections with ourselves, our meaningful/non-meaningful others and the world. Each of those require different parts of ourselves to be engaged in the awareness of connection. 

In this episode Ben & Silva talk with Charlie Condou; a proud LGBTQ+ British actor and columnist, best known for this roles in Coronation Street, Gimme Gimme Gimme and Holby City.

Charlie is instinctively a communicator and someone who brings people together, Collectively discussions touch upon the importance of Charlies own well-being growing up, and how that informs his choices for his own children.

Ben and Silva also evaluate the challenges isolation can present to Queer people finding their way in the world, and how connecting with others can safeguard and benefit Queer individuals.