Chadwicks, Ireland's leading builders' merchants, has initiated the second year of its 'How's the Head?' campaign, aiming to provide tradespeople with tools to enhance their mental health.

This follows research indicating that 44% of tradespeople believe their mental health could be improved, and 29% admit to prioritising physical fitness over mental well-being.​

In collaboration with broadcaster and psychotherapist Richie Sadlier, the campaign will offer practical advice on boosting mental fitness. Sadlier will share tips on his Instagram profile throughout the week, providing simple steps for tradespeople to prioritise mental health amidst their busy schedules.​

As part of the initiative, Chadwicks will donate €1 from every sale of personal protective equipment (PPE), including high-visibility jackets, hard hats, and safety boots, across all branches nationwide over the next month to the mental health charity Aware. Aware offers essential support to individuals affected by mental health conditions throughout Ireland.​

The company's research also revealed that among those struggling with mental health, 32% do not confide in anyone, while 36% talk to their partners. Common symptoms include low moods (70%) and feelings of stress or anxiety (64%). Despite these challenges, only 2% seek professional help.​

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Recognising the need for proactive measures, over a third (36%) of tradespeople are actively attempting to improve their mental fitness by spending more time with loved ones (55%) and ensuring adequate sleep (31%).​

Work habits also impact mental health, with 37% not taking regular breaks and 31% working excessive hours. Additionally, 58% have experienced sleep loss over work-related issues in the past year.​

Richie Sadlier said: "I am delighted to once again partner with Chadwicks to help raise awareness for this campaign and encourage tradespeople to talk more openly about their mental health. It was interesting to see from the findings that many tradespeople prioritise their physical fitness over their mental health, but as anyone working in health and wellbeing will tell you, your mental wellbeing is a crucially important area. And just like your physical fitness, your mental fitness can be built up and maintained if you follow the right suggestions. I got involved in this campaign again to help people realise what they are.​

"One of the biggest lessons my football career taught me was that if I was mentally in a good place, I played better and enjoyed things more. I've since learned that it’s the very same for me off the pitch, too. I've been given so many tips over the years from coaches, teammates and therapists about how to keep myself mentally fit and well, and as part of this campaign, I’m going to share some on my Instagram over the next week. Keep an eye on for those, and in the meantime, I'd really encourage tradespeople to talk more with each other, check in, and open up to build a healthier, stronger community."

Patrick Atkinson, CEO of Chadwicks added: "It's encouraging to see tradespeople becoming more aware of their mental health and taking steps to stay mentally fit, but the research makes it clear—this conversation needs to stay front and centre.

"At Chadwicks, we recognise the unique pressures tradespeople can face and know it’s our responsibility to use our platform to bring more attention to this, driving meaningful change. Through 'How's the Head', we are committed to shining a spotlight on how mental health impacts tradespeople, breaking down stigma, and encouraging more people in the trades to open up. Equally, we understand that supporting mental health starts from within and that’s why, in conjunction with Vhi, we run an ongoing mental health awareness programme for our colleagues, reinforcing our commitment to fostering a culture where mental health and colleague wellbeing are a top priority."