Posted by:

Patricia Gardiner
Sales and Marketing Director, Trade Direct Insurance

1. Don’t Shoulder the Stress Alone

Tradies are known for “cracking on” and getting the job done, no matter what. But constantly pushing through stress without a break or someone to talk to can be damaging.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, low or just not yourself, you are not alone. Many tradespeople feel the same way — they just don’t talk about it. In fact:

• 20% of tradies wouldn’t tell anyone they’re struggling
• Only 21% would feel comfortable speaking to friends
• Younger workers (18–24) are even less likely to reach out

Talking helps. And if talking to family or mates feels uncomfortable, speaking to someone trained to listen can make a world of difference.

Zurich Support Services gives you up to five sessions with a qualified counsellor, completely free and arranged quickly. You can speak over the phone, by video or face to face — whatever feels easiest.

2. Get Your Workload Under Control

We often assume more work means more success. But if you’re constantly juggling too many jobs, it can quickly become overwhelming.

In our research, “having too much work” was one of the top sources of stress for:

• Bricklayers (35%)
• Gardeners (33%)
• Builders (31%)

A packed diary might look good on paper, but burnout hurts your health, your family life, and even your business in the long run.

Try these simple steps:

• Build in buffer time between jobs
• Say “no” when your capacity is full (it’s allowed!)
• Give realistic timeframes to customers
• Use digital tools or apps to plan workloads more clearly

If work stress is getting out of hand, Zurich Support Services can offer guidance on building healthier routines and managing pressure more effectively.

3. Protect Yourself from Money Worries by Taking Stock Early

Financial uncertainty is one of the biggest sources of stress for tradies. Trade Direct found:

• 21% are stressed about material costs
• 19% worry about business cash flow
• 17% feel the pressure of securing new customers

And unlike many other jobs, tradespeople often don’t have a safety net, no guaranteed salary, no sick pay, and no income if theft stops you working.

Taking early action can reduce the anxiety:

• Review your finances monthly
• Separate business and personal accounts
• Schedule time for invoicing and follow ups
• Get clear on expenses and profit margins
• Explore affordable tool insurance to protect your livelihood

Zurich Support Services can also help with money management guidance, budgeting advice and signposting to support if you’re struggling.

4. Make Time for Yourself (Even When You’re Busy)

Working long hours, evenings and weekends can feel like part of the job  but it shouldn’t cost you your wellbeing.

Spending too little time with family is one of the top pressures reported by caretakers, maintenance workers and other trades. And when you’re exhausted, your mental health, relationships and performance all suffer.

Try building small wellbeing habits into your week:

• A short walk before or after work
• Taking a proper lunch break instead of eating on the go
• Scheduling one evening a week with no jobs booked or doing paperwork
• Talking openly about workload with your family and friends

They may seem small, but consistency matters.

5. Get Support Early - Not When You’re at Breaking Point

With tradespeople facing nearly four times the suicide risk of the national average, early support can be life saving.

That’s why Trade Direct Insurance has partnered with Zurich to offer free, confidential 24/7 wellbeing support to eligible customers. This includes:

• Emotional support for stress, anxiety, low mood or bereavement
• Help with relationship or family pressures
• Practical support with childcare and elder care
• Assistance with housing or relocating
• Budgeting and general legal guidance
• Access to professional counsellors quickly 
  o    Counsellor assigned within two working days
  o    First session within five working days

The trades are full of strong, resilient people - but strength isn’t about staying silent or pushing through pain. It’s about knowing when to reach for support.

If you’re feeling the pressure, uncertain about money, overwhelmed at work or dealing with personal struggles, you don’t have to go through it alone. Free, confidential help is here whenever you need it.

Please note: Zurich Support Services is independent of your insurance contract and may be withdrawn at any time, but is currently available to all eligible TDI customers.