Live Well Build Well launches nationwide ‘champions’ network to promote mental fitness in construction
The programme’s philosophy is simple: just like you can train your body to be physically fit, you can strengthen your mind. By learning to think flexibly, avoid common thinking traps, and sharpen communication and listening skills, tradies can build real resilience.
Now in its third year, Live Well Build Well encourages builders and tradies to share what helps them stay well and on top of their game. We spoke to some of the new champions about how they handle the pressures and uncertainties of the industry—here’s what they had to say.
Live Well Build programme leader Rafeo Caso
‘Reach out to people’
Brandon McAllister, a 27-year-old carpenter in the Auckland area, uses his social media platform to share advice on navigating the challenges of the trade.
“A lot of us carpenters are self-employed, so it can be one of the loneliest jobs you’ll ever find. That’s why it’s important to reach out to people. I’ve done this myself—messaging other tradies online and asking things like, ‘You’ve got kids; how do you manage school holidays while working on site?’ When you ask, people are often willing to share their advice.”
‘Do what you love’
Brandon’s biggest mental fitness tip is simple: “If you’re not enjoying the type of work you’re doing, don’t do it. Change. Find a different form of carpentry that suits you better. When you find your area, you’ll be the happiest person ever.”
Communication and listening skills to support others
Jennifer Parker, general manager of Licensed Renovations and another Live Well Build Well champion, says the current economic climate is making many in the industry feel more cautious and anxious.
“There’s a lot of negativity out there at the moment. If we put that out as leaders, we’ll just get it back. Maintaining a positive attitude on site with your team is critical,” says Jennifer.
“Working with Live Well Build Well has opened my eyes to other people’s perspectives. I’ve learnt to listen more carefully, take in what people say, and make time to talk. Even a simple text or quick call to say, ‘Hey, I’m thinking about you today’ doesn’t take much effort—but it means a lot.”
"If you’re not enjoying the type of work you’re doing, don’t do it." - Brandon McAllister, Live Well Build Well Champion
Better prep = less stress
Site manager Tuhi Mueller has been building for 15 years and says planning is the key to staying calm under pressure.
“We all deal with stress, but it’s how you manage it. For me, it’s about having a good plan. First thing Monday morning, we have a toolbox meeting and map out the week. It makes people feel part of the team and take ownership, which makes my job easier—and I stress less.”
Tuhi also makes rest and recovery a priority. “If you’ve had a hard day, take a walk around the block. On weekends, I love half an hour on the mountain bike—being in nature helps me reset for the week ahead.”
Small changes, big impact
Programme lead Rafael Caso says research shows that small, everyday changes can have a huge impact on mental wellbeing. “Building these habits means we’re better equipped to handle the ups and downs of the industry.”
Survey results back this up. In 2024, wellbeing scores among residential construction workers rose from 15.5 to 16.4 on the WHO-5 index, and reports of poor emotional wellbeing dropped from 25% to 18%.
“Real stories are the backbone of Live Well Build Well,” says Raf. “By sharing them, we aim to inspire and uplift our community.”
To learn more, visit livewellbuildwell.com.