Supporting Mental Health: How Trade Assist Gives Back

From raising awareness to lending a helping hand.

At Trade Assist, we understand the importance of mental health. We’re proud to support organisations that make a real difference within our community, whether it be raising awareness, providing resources or lending a helping hand. In this piece, we’re sharing the stories of three amazing organisations, what they stand for and how we’re helping them do what they do best. Together, we’re building stronger, healthier communities!

MATES In Construction - Fly the Flag for Suicide Prevention
MATES in Construction NZ is an evidence-based workplace suicide prevention model developed to reduce high suicide rates in the NZ construction industry. Their work is vital as our construction industry is losing nearly one person to suicide every week and 98% of those we lose are our men. Construction workers are six times more likely to die from suicide than from a work accident, so we appreciate all the good work they do in our community.

On Friday 13th September, we joined our fellow industry mates at a fundraising BBQ lunch during the Fly the Flag for Suicide Prevention week (coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day observed on 10th September every year). This event brought the construction industry together to celebrate the collective commitment and contribution to suicide prevention. We are stronger together.

Gumboot Friday - On-Site BBQ
Dealing with mental health challenges is like walking through the mud every day. Gumboot Friday delivers free, immediate counselling sessions with qualified professionals to young Kiwis aged 25 years and under. Over 100,000 therapy sessions have been delivered to young Kiwis since 2019. When we support Gumboot Friday, we're helping our youth stay in conversation.

On Friday 1st November, Simon, Daniel and Thaís joined some of our candidates on-site to attend a fundraising BBQ lunch. It was great to be part of something so simple yet meaningful, while also spending time with the people who matter to us.

Movember - Naylor Love Golf Day
Every year, Movember is celebrated in various ways across New Zealand. This year, we supported the men's health movement by participating in a fundraising golf day hosted by Naylor Love. Andrew and Simon enjoyed the sun, reconnected with fellow industry mates and had a few good swings.

Many of us are familiar with the "Grow A Mo" movement that takes New Zealand by storm during November but Movember stands for much more than just growing a handsome moustache. Here are five things every man should know about their mental and physical health:

• Stay connected - Your mates are important and spending time with them is good for you.

• Start the conversation - Sometimes listening is the most helpful thing you can do.

• Know your numbers - At 50, talk to your doctor about prostate cancer.

• Nuts and bolts - Get to know your norm and if something's changed, it's time to visit your doctor.

• Move more - Add more activity to your day and your body and mind will thank you.