Tradies often face a tough and demanding work environment, where prioritising mental health may not come easily. The expectation to be emotionally strong and not show vulnerability can make it hard to open up.
August was Tradies National Health Month, co-ordinated by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA).
A tradie survey from the APA found that 50 per cent of participants were affected mentally by the current skills shortage.
“As an ex-tradie, I remember how working alone or in small teams could sometimes make me feel disconnected from my family and community,” Fergus founder Dan Pollard said.
“The demands of the job can often intrude on personal time, leading to a poor work-life balance.
“Mental health won’t happen by itself. It takes focus, prioritising self-care, and finding time to relax with loved ones. Let’s face it, as tradies we aren’t always good at recognising or admitting that we need more emotional support. But it’s time to change that.”
There are simple steps that tradies—and their mates—can take to make a significant difference in mental health.
Have a chat
Don’t keep things bottled up. If something is bothering you, talk about it. Whether it’s a chat with a mate during a break or a call to a helpline like Lifeline or Mates in Construction, reaching out can be the first step toward feeling better.
Just as safety on the job is a team effort, so is mental health. If you notice a mate struggling, don’t ignore it. Sometimes, simply asking, “You alright?” can open the door to a conversation that makes all the difference.
Regular maintenance
The ASA survey found 87 per cent of tradies medicate or self-medicate to manage their pain, with 30 per cent resorting to drugs or alcohol.
Enjoying a cold drink is fine, but moderation matters. A clear mind is always better than a foggy one. Try swapping a beer for a book or a movie night with friends or family. If you find it hard to avoid alcohol or drugs in social settings, consider trying a zero-alcohol option.
According to the APA’s survey, 76 per cent of tradies report pain affects their quality of life and mental health, but more than half do not seek professional help.
You wouldn’t ignore a leaky pipe, so don’t overlook signs of mental strain. Regular check-ups with your doctor can help catch mental health issues early. GPs can also refer you to mental health professionals if needed. Don’t wait until things get worse—seek help early.
After a long day, exercise might be the last thing on your mind, but physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters. Even a 30-minute walk after work can help clear your head.
“The physical exhaustion and chronic pain associated with physically demanding work also affects mental well-being, and we need to be talking about it,” Dan said.
“Time pressures add another layer of stress, as tradies often find themselves meeting tight deadlines and managing emergency callouts, which makes them feel like they are living in a constant state of urgency.
“Those that own their own business or are sole traders have the added stress of keeping admin at bay, cash flowing, and jobs coming in, so it’s just a pipe ready to burst without an outlet.”
Though fast food might be tempting, your body—and mind—deserve better fuel. A poor diet can contribute to poor mental health. Next time you’re about to grab that meat pie, consider going for a chicken salad instead.
Or, if you don’t mind leftovers, pack a portion of your dinner for lunch the next day.
Mind your mind
It’s easy to think that pushing through the pain is the way to go, but that approach can quickly lead to burnout. Everyone needs a break now and then, whether it’s a weekend off or a longer holiday. Stepping away gives your mind a chance to reset and recharge.
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to mental health. Equip yourself with the facts by exploring resources from organisations like the Black Dog Institute or Beyond Blue. Understanding what you’re going through not only helps you but also better positions you to support a mate who might be struggling.
Business management is one thing that can cause unnecessary stress for tradies.
Why make things harder than they need to be?
Visit fergus.com to learn more about its job management software or sign up for a 14-day free trial