81% of tradespeople say a quick chat improves their wellbeing, as almost half spend four hours per day working alone

Chadwicks launches third year of mental health campaign with Richie Sadlier, encouraging tradespeople to stay connected

• 81% of tradespeople agree that a quick chat with someone during the day has a positive impact
• Almost half (45%) spend at least four hours of a typical working day alone
• 83% agree that staying connected with friends and family is important for their overall wellbeing
• Nearly three-quarters (72%) believe the trade industry is becoming more open about wellbeing and mental health
• Richie Sadlier returns as ambassador for the third year of Chadwicks’ How’s the Head? campaign

27 July 2026: More than four in five (81%) tradespeople say a quick chat with someone during the day has a positive impact on their wellbeing, according to new research from Chadwicks, Ireland’s leading builders’ merchant.

The findings come as almost half (45%) of tradespeople spend at least four hours of a typical working day alone, highlighting the important role everyday conversations can play in helping people stay connected.

The research has been carried out to mark the third year of Chadwicks’ ‘How’s the Head?’ campaign, in partnership with broadcaster and psychotherapist Richie Sadlier. This year’s campaign focuses on the value of everyday connections, recognising that while working independently is a valued part of life in the trades, day-to-day interactions with others can play an important role in supporting overall wellbeing.

As part of the campaign, Chadwicks has launched a new content series with Richie Sadlier, featuring tea and chats with people from across the industry about maintaining relationships, wellbeing and the importance of checking in.

The importance of staying connected

The research showcases why everyday conversations are key for tradespeople during busy working weeks. 83% agree that staying in touch with friends and family is important for their overall wellbeing, while 48% say interactions with other people during the working day are very or extremely important.

Phone calls (35%) are the most common way tradespeople stay connected during the working week, followed by social media at 33% and spending time with family at 28%.

During work travel, almost half (45%) say they call someone for a chat at least once a day, while a further 32% do so a few times a week. Partners and spouses are the most common source of support, with 42% most likely to call their partner or spouse during work travel. The findings suggest these everyday conversations play an important role in helping lift tradespeople’s moods during long working days.

Working independently

Working independently is a key part of life in the trades, and the research shows that many tradespeople value the flexibility it brings. More than a quarter (27%), say the best thing about working independently is being able to work at their own pace, while 23% value the flexibility it provides and 13% enjoy being their own boss.

While tradespeople value the independence and flexibility the job offers, the research also highlights the reality that many spend long periods working alone. When asked about the challenges of working alone, 42% cited pressure to get jobs completed on time, followed by managing multiple responsibilities (37%) and the long hours (35%). Getting the balance right between work and personal life was also highlighted as challenging by 34% of respondents.

The power of a quick chat

Whether it’s a call in the van, catching up with someone on site or checking in after a long day, the data suggests these everyday conversations play an important role in a tradesperson’s work life. Supporting this, more than four in five (81%) tradespeople agree that a quick chat with someone during the day has a positive impact on their wellbeing.

Over half (53%) agree they find it difficult to make social plans because of their work schedule, but many tradespeople make a conscious effort for connection outside of work. 66% see friends socially once a week, while a further 21% see friends a few times a month.

Attitudes towards wellbeing also appear to be shifting. Nearly three-quarters (72%) believe the trade industry is becoming more open about wellbeing and mental health, while three in five (60%) say they feel comfortable talking openly about their own mental health.

Speaking about the campaign, Richie Sadlier said: “I’m proud to partner with Chadwicks again for the third year of How’s the Head? What stands out in this year’s research is that working independently is a big part of life in the trades and, for many people, it is something they value. It brings freedom, flexibility and pride in getting the job done.

“But the research also shows how important connection is. Whether it’s a phone call while travelling to another job, general chats on the site or making the effort to check in with a friend, it can make a real difference. This campaign is about reminding tradespeople that those everyday conversations matter and that looking after your mental wellbeing does not have to be complicated. It can start with a simple chat.”

Patrick Atkinson, CEO of Chadwicks, added: “Now in its third year, ‘How’s the Head?’ continues to open up important conversations around mental health and wellbeing across the trade industry. At Chadwicks, we recognise the pride, skill and resilience that define the trades, but we also know that some of the challenges people face can go unseen. We want to encourage tradespeople to check in with one another, make time for everyday conversations and continue building a culture where people feel comfortable talking about how they are really doing.”

As part of this year’s How’s the Head campaign, Chadwicks is encouraging tradespeople to take five minutes for a Builder’s Brew. Whether it’s checking in with a mate, making a call on the drive between jobs or taking time for a chat over a cup of tea, small everyday conversations can make a real difference. If you or a loved one are in need of mental health support, Aware’s free education, telephone and group supports can help. For more information visit aware.ie or freephone 1800 80 48 48 today. Aware is the national charity providing free support, therapy, education, and information to those affected by depression, bipolar and anxiety.