Men Talking Mental Health: The Non-Negotiables That Really Work

To mark Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, we asked five local men to share the one thing they do for their mental wellbeing that’s absolutely non-negotiable.

From boundaries and balance to sea swims and social connection, here are the everyday rituals that help them stay grounded, connected and well.

 

 

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health, but sometimes, one small, consistent habit can make all the difference. And the more we talk about men’s mental health, the more we realise it’s not just about crisis moments - it’s about daily choices, honest conversations, and knowing what helps you feel your best.

So, here’s what they shared.

 

 

Chris Chamberlain.

Chris Chamberlain is Workplace Partnership Lead at Guernsey Mind, where he helps local organisations build healthier, more supportive workplace cultures that put people first.

For Chris, it all starts with family - and being truly present.

“For me, my family is everything. Being present and available for them, not just physically, but mentally too, this is my top priority. That means my one non-negotiable for my mental health is working in an environment that genuinely supports balance.

A workplace that values wellbeing doesn’t just help me show up better at home, it also allows me to give my best at work. It’s about mutual respect, knowing that looking after people leads to better performance, connection, and fulfilment.

That’s why I believe so strongly in initiatives like Guernsey Mind’s Workplace Partnership. When organisations commit to creating cultures that understand and support employees, it benefits everyone at work and at home.”

 

 

Jason Hamon.

Jason is a local professional who’s learned the importance of boundaries and self-awareness when it comes to protecting his wellbeing.

Jason’s non-negotiable? Saying no without guilt.

“One non-negotiable thing I do for my mental health is to avoid being a people pleaser, especially in social situations. By nature, I find it hard to say no to people if invited out socially or to attend a work function, and so on. I really enjoy the company of others but can sometimes feel overwhelmed if I have too many things without time to decompress between them.

I now have much better boundaries and will politely decline invitations if I do not want to attend. I also avoid making excuses as to why I won’t attend, which again is a positive step for my mental health as I don’t put myself in the position where people try to change times to accommodate me, which then leads to even more excuses.”

 

 

Greg Zimmerman.

Greg Zimmerman is the founder of Vent Ltd, a Guernsey-grown business built on craftsmanship, strong values, and a refreshing take on what makes a great team.

For Greg, listening - to himself and others - is everything.

“The one thing I do for my mental health is listen. To music, but more importantly to myself and to the people around me. Being aware of others (and how they receive you) is a really good barometer of one’s own mental health.

Environment is key! It took me a while to learn how to listen to other people and situations and understand them correctly. My environment had a lot to do with this. You get out what you put in I guess (another lesson from my Mum!).

I am definitely more of a factual person than a feelings person, however in line with that, the facts don’t lie! People really do have an energy that is apparent when you meet them. In reference to my bipolar disorder, it took me many years to understand (and still am). This is something that I really have to monitor and manage. I am getting better at it but it’s a work in progress (listening)!”

 

 

Tom Leale.

Tom Leale is the founder of Men's Odyssey, a local group encouraging men to connect, talk, and support each other through shared experiences and outdoor challenges.

Tom’s reset button? A sunrise swim.

“I’d say my one non-negotiable for my mental health would have to be sea swimming. Especially early morning before work, when you are in the water and the sun is rising over Herm, there is no better way to start the day.

I never regret a swim and feel set for my day no matter how tired I am beforehand. Winter is best when the water is colder, but I love it all year round.”

 

 

Marc Winn.

Marc Winn is an entrepreneur and community advocate known for his work with Innovate Guernsey and his passion for creating spaces that inspire connection and creativity.

For Marc, connection is the key to staying grounded.

“For me, it’s social connection. Every week, I make sure I’m deeply connecting with lots of people, not surface-level chats, but real, meaningful conversations.

Whether it’s over coffee, a walk, or just bumping into someone and really listening, that sense of connection keeps me grounded. I’ve learned that my wellbeing depends on being part of something bigger than myself. When I’m surrounded by good people and good energy, everything else - stress, self-doubt, uncertainty - becomes easier to carry.”

 

Where to Find Support.

If you are struggling to cope, speak to your GP or contact Guernsey Mind, who offer free Supported Self Help: A guided programme to help you understand and manage your feelings, giving you practical tools and techniques to use every day.

If you, or someone you know, need support right now, contact: 

- Samaritans: call 116123 for 24/7 free and confidential support.

- Emergency: call 999 if someone is at immediate risk.