No one builds alone: Live Well, Build Well

The Live Well, Build Well initiative began in late 2022 to help residential construction workers improve their mental health and wellbeing. Backed by the Mental Health Foundation and ACC, the programme is designed to help builders and tradies build the mental strength and resilience needed to cope with the demands of working in a challenging and constantly changing industry.

Its annual New Zealand tradie wellbeing surveys consistently show that loneliness is one of the most common challenges facing Kiwi builders and tradies. That can come as a surprise. Construction is a people-focused industry. But loneliness isn’t about how many people are around you. It’s about feeling disconnected, unsupported, or like you’ve got no one to talk to when things get tough. The good news is there are practical things you can do that can help.

Take notice of the good stuff

When you’re stressed, tired or feeling isolated, it’s easy to focus on what’s going wrong. A simple habit that can help is taking a moment each day to notice what’s going right. It doesn’t have to be anything big. It could be a good chat with a mate on site, knocking off a job you’re proud of, a laugh with the kids, a decent coffee in the morning, or simply getting home safely after a long day. You could jot down a few things you’re grateful for, think about a couple of wins from the day, or simply thank someone who helped you out. Small moments add up.

Don’t sit in silence

Many tradies spend long hours driving between jobs, working alone, or doing repetitive tasks. If the silence starts getting heavy, fill the space. Listen to music that lifts your mood, podcasts about topics you’re interested in, audiobooks while driving, or talkback radio and interviews that help you feel connected to what’s happening around you. Sometimes having another voice in the background can make a surprisingly big difference.

Pick up the phone

A quick text is easy, but a phone call is often better. If someone pops into your head, give them a call. You don’t need a reason. A ten-minute chat with a mate, family member, former workmate or someone you trust can help you feel more connected and remind you that you’re not carrying everything on your own.

Focus on real conversations

Being around people doesn’t automatically stop loneliness. You can be on a busy site all day and still feel isolated. What often matters most is the quality of your conversations. When you’re catching up with someone you trust, ask how they’re really doing. Share what’s happening in your own life. Talk about more than work, and listen properly instead of rushing to solve problems. You don’t need deep and meaningful conversations every day, but genuine connection goes a long way.

Get outside

Most builders already spend plenty of time outdoors, but this is about getting outside for yourself, not just for work. Go for a walk, take the dog to the beach, get out on the bike, head fishing, or simply sit somewhere quiet and clear your head. Nature has a way of helping put things into perspective and can improve both mental and physical wellbeing.

Share what’s going on inside

A lot of tradies are good at solving practical problems but less comfortable talking about what’s going on inside. Keeping everything bottled up often makes things feel heavier. Talking to someone you trust doesn’t mean you need all the answers. It simply means you’re not carrying it alone. Whether it’s your partner, a mate, a workmate, a mentor or a professional, having a conversation can take some of the pressure off.

Get stuck into something you enjoy

When loneliness starts taking over, it can feel like nothing is worth doing. That’s usually the time to do something anyway. Think about what you enjoy outside of work. It might be hunting, fishing, sport, woodworking, music, gardening, DIY projects at home or learning a new skill. Doing things that give you a sense of purpose and enjoyment can help break the cycle of isolation.

Spend time with animals

Pets don’t solve everything, but they can provide great company. Walking a dog gets you moving and often leads to conversations with other people. If you don’t have a pet, consider helping at a local animal shelter or spending time with friends or family who do.

Be careful with social media

Social media can make it look like everyone else is winning. Perfect holidays. Perfect families. Perfect businesses. The reality is most people only share their highlight reel. If scrolling leaves you feeling worse, take a break and connect with someone directly instead. A phone call, coffee or catch-up is usually far more valuable than another hour online.

Remember: it won’t last forever

Loneliness can feel overwhelming when you’re in the middle of it, but it isn’t permanent. Many builders and tradies experience periods where they feel disconnected, especially during stressful projects, business challenges, relationship changes or difficult life events. The important thing is not to sit with it alone. Reach out. Talk to someone. Take one small step. Connection often starts with a simple conversation. No one builds alone, and you don’t have to carry things alone either.

Live Well, Build Well are looking for partner sponsors, as funding from ACC is becoming increasingly unpredictable. Interested parties can reach Rafael at rafael@livewellbuildwell.com.