A staggering 82% of tradespeople in the UK are facing mental health issues because of their work, a study by IronmongeryDirect has found.
The study indicates that over half (56%) of tradespeople encounter mental health concerns like stress, anxiety, or depression monthly. Alarmingly, 27% feel these symptoms on a weekly basis.
The chief stressor is the on-going Cost of Living crisis, which is impacting 34% of workers’ mental health. This percentage is a slight improvement from 39% reported in 2023.
Basildon Mind’s chief executive, Denise Kent, expressed concern that 90% of workers are unaware of her organization, along with 103 other local Minds ready to provide necessary support for mental health issues. She advocates for increased Mental Health Awareness to ensure everyone receives the care they need.
Regrettably, the majority of tradespeople (88%) aren’t comfortable discussing their mental health. Only 10%, down from 17% in the past, have talked to loved ones about it in the last year.
Additionally, 7% are worried about colleague reactions if they shared their experiences, and 26% believe they can’t take time off for mental health reasons.
Amongst trades, bricklayers most often feel stressed or anxious daily (35%), but joiners are the group most affected by mental health issues, with 92% having experienced them.
