Managing mental health as a tradie

In late 2024, New Zealand entered a mild recession with GDP shrinking about 1 %, and residential construction consent activity dropping to five-year lows. As a result, project delays, rising materials costs, and fewer jobs put pressure on contractors across the sector.

The financial stress experienced by many tradies and businesses was not the only impact on daily life — a noticeable decline in mental and physical wellbeing also emerged. A recent EMA/nib survey revealed that 56% of workers reported mental health concerns linked to the rising cost of living, and 52% expressed fears of burnout.

It is also worth noting that construction workers have a suicide rate estimated to be 25 % higher than other sectors—one construction worker dies by suicide each week in NZ.

What are the signs that you might be struggling?

It is tough to admit—but for many tradies the pressure can feel overwhelming. Look out for:

Persistent fatigue, slowed thinking, trouble concentrating.
Mood shifts, particularly feeling irritable, sad, or withdrawn.
Feeling stuck or hopeless, or working unhealthily long hours

What practical steps can you, or your employer, take to manage your mental health?

Workplace toolbox talks and fostering open dialogue

Make space for mental health in daily or weekly toolbox talks. Normalising stress and encouraging conversations helps remove stigma and surfaces collective solutions.

Share the load and take regular breaks

Take regular breaks, step away mid morning or afternoon to recharge. Social connections like pausing to chat, laugh, or eat with team members build resilience and helps maintain perspective.

Establish healthy habits

Small changes count:

Eat regularly and well.
Sleep enough to rest and recover.
Cut back on alcohol or other coping habits that add stress later.

Invest in upskilling yourself and take control of your life

Learning something new — whether it is technical (like EV charger installs or solar), business-focused (like quoting or project management), or personal (like stress management) gives you a sense of momentum and control. Instead of feeling stuck, you are actively improving your situation. Feeling more in control of your workload and finances reduces anxiety and builds confidence.

Support your workmates

Check in by asking questions like “How are you doing?” or “Is there anything on your mind?”
Trust your instincts, notice even subtle changes in your workmates’ behaviour or attitude, as these can be important signs they may need support. Being attentive can make a real difference in helping them feel seen and cared for.
Use the MANERS first aid model. This practical framework is designed to help people provide immediate mental health support to someone who may be struggling. It guides conversations around mental wellbeing in a structured, supportive way.

Following up with a brief text or inviting a mate for a coffee a few days later demonstrates genuine care and helps reduce feelings of isolation, strengthening support among workmates .

Where can you get help?

If you or someone you work with is struggling with mental health, it is important to know that help is available—often just a call, click, or conversation away. In New Zealand, there are dedicated services tailored specifically for tradies and the construction sector, as well as national helplines and online tools designed to support anyone facing stress, low mood, or mental health challenges.

Whether you need immediate support, ongoing wellbeing programmes, or practical resources, the following organisations provide trusted, free, and confidential assistance to help you stay strong both on and off the job.

MATES in Construction NZ: Free 24/7 helpline (0800 111 315), trained site “CONNECTORS” and “ASIST” volunteers, and on site support tools.
Live Well Build Well and Site Safe/Ignite Aotearoa: Wellbeing programmes tailored to builders and tradies, offering online courses and three free sessions with wellbeing professionals.
National helplines (free call/text 1737; Lifeline 0800 543 354; Suicide Crisis 0508 828 865; Depression Helpline 0800 111 757).
SPARX e therapy: A University of Auckland–developed online tool for younger tradespeople dealing with low mood or stress.
Te Hiringa Mahara (Mental Health & Wellbeing Commission): Promotes mental health equity across NZ, monitors national services, and guides access strategies via frameworks like He Ara Āwhina and He Ara Oranga.

Managing mental health as a tradie in today’s challenging economic climate requires awareness, action, and support. Recognising the signs of stress or burnout early can prevent grave consequences, while practical steps like open conversations, regular breaks, healthy habits, and upskilling empower individuals to regain control. Supporting workmates through attentive listening and using available resources fosters a caring workplace culture.

Prioritising mental wellbeing not only benefits you but strengthens the entire team, ensuring everyone can thrive despite the pressures. Remember, you are not alone.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.

by Sean Aucamp, 8 August 2025

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