More than a quarter (28%) of tradespeople are actively reducing their alcohol intake, with almost one in five (18%) concerned about the long-term impact their drinking could have on their health, according to new research.
The new data from Tradesman Saver, shared as part of The Trade Wellbeing Report, also shows that one in five (20%) actively avoid recreational drugs. A further 9% say they’re worried about the long-term effects of taking prescription medication, such as antidepressants.
Protecting mental and physical health also extends beyond changing attitudes to alcohol and drugs. Of those asked, 44% are trying to get enough sleep, 36% take time off or go on holiday, 35% make sure they talk to friends and family about how they’re feeling and a third (33%) spend time on their hobbies. Although finding time for regular exercise remains a challenge, with only a third (33%) saying it is part of their routine and only 31% managing to eat a healthy and balanced diet.
Dean Laming, Managing Director at Tradesman Saver, said: “Working on the tools is both physically and mentally demanding, so prioritising your long-term health is vital. Our research shows that looks different for everyone, whether it’s cutting back on alcohol, prioritising sleep, or spending more time with friends and family, or in your local community.
“Looking after yourself isn’t just about the here and now, it’s about making sure you can continue doing the job for years to come. The pressures facing tradespeople extend well beyond the physical demands of the work, and building healthier habits can play an important role in supporting their wellbeing.”
The research also highlights the wider pressures affecting the physical and mental health of the trade. One in five (20%) respondents said they had taken time off work in the last year because of stress, anxiety or burnout, while 40% said the hardest thing to deal with when taking unexpected time off is loss of income.
To find out more about the physical and mental wellbeing of the trade, you can download the report here.
