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Paul Cooper, 65, revealed low self-esteem, anxiety and fatigue are symptoms he experienced since childhood.
Despite not feeling suicidal, Paul feels it’s a constant battle to be productive.
Paul said: “If I didn’t wake up tomorrow it would not bother me. I ask myself, ‘who would miss me if I was gone?’
“Every day is a struggle. I might have a really good day and then the next day I will wake up with anxiety thinking that something is going to go wrong. There are certain hormones at play.
“Even if I want to go for lunch somewhere I need to build up to it. It just wears you down. I feel tired all the time and that is part of it. I’ve suffered for a long time, and I have been advised to get care.”
Paul’s mental health issues were compounded by a diagnosis for prostate cancer, resulting in an operation last September, which he continues to recover from.
“I was working for the Royal Mail in Pontypool and I had health problems,” Paul added.
However, Paul now lives in Aberbeeg where going for walks and feeding animals at a farm, has improved his condition.
“I was born in Newport, and I moved back ten years ago after living in Essex for a while. I try to go for walks all the time and I found this farm with thirty sheep and horses.
“Feeding them gives me luck. I go up there and feed the horses on a regular basis. It makes me feel good and takes my mind off my mental health issues. The animals are happy to see me even though they are shy and get scared easily.
“Me going out on walks helps a lot. It makes me feel great and improves my mental health. If I share how it makes me feel, it might encourage other people to do the same.”
Paul visits the animals two or three times a week and has been trying to recapture the fitness he had during his time at the Royal Mail, before being diagnosed with cancer.
For confidential support, Samaritans can be contacted for free around the clock 365 days a year on 116 123.
