Be creative with exercise
The main way I relax when feeling stressed is physical activity – going out for a run or even walking and just talking with myself. It’s about managing my head and thoughts. I get out for a walk as much as I can. I try to go every day, even if it’s just for 10 minutes.
We are having our shopping delivered, but if we need fresh bits I walk down to my local shop and will distribute the bags so that it’s evenly weighted on each side. I use them as kind of weight training.
I also quite like tidying up. Doing housework can be a purpose for me to move and can be quite therapeutic.
Make sure you eat healthily
Being more vulnerable [from coronavirus], I have been making sure I eat healthy. I have been eating loads of veg, fruit and trying to get more water in. I think I now have a really good, healthy diet.
Talk to others
Everybody is different, but for me, I try and talk about it. I’m part of a support group, we meet once a month and check in and see where everyone is at. It breaks my heart to hear how people are really struggling at the moment, but great to see people trying to be positive. It’s been such a support to have that group.
I’ve shared the cloud of cancer that is hanging over me, it helps to offload it. I’m not looking for anybody to give me the answers, I’m just sharing with the group. The honesty is refreshing and almost healing, it’s nice to know that you don't have to put on a front with people.
There is sometimes pressure within society to be that really strong, brave man. In support groups you can just be honest.
Talk to yourself
I try not to put things to the back of my mind, because that is when things get buried and can come out in other unhealthy ways. So, I walk around the park and talk my way through something. It’s my way of unburdening myself. To others I would say, find what works for you. It’s about being honest with people and being honest with yourself about how you’re feeling.