Mental health is the most underrated and overlooked element of entrepreneurial success. Research shows that 72% of entrepreneurs are affected by mental health issues (compared to 48% of non-entrepreneurs.)
OAKLAND, Calif. (PRWEB)
June 16, 2022
SkysTheLimit.org (“Sky’s the Limit”), the digital community transforming the playing field for entrepreneurial success, shines the spotlight on mental health for National Men’s Health Month, with the purpose of heightening the awareness of preventable health problems and encouraging early detection and treatment of mental health disorders. And with National Mental Health Awareness Month just this past month, in May, this seems like the perfect time to explore the topic of entrepreneurial mental health.
Mental health is the most underrated and overlooked element of entrepreneurial success. Yet the entrepreneurial community at large remains mostly silent about the impact mental health has on their lives and businesses. Research shows that 72% of entrepreneurs are affected by mental health issues (compared to 48% of non-entrepreneurs). In addition, entrepreneurs were significantly more likely to report a lifetime history of depression (30%), ADHD (19%), substance use (12%), and a bipolar diagnosis (11%) than were comparison participants. Why is this?
It turns out the same traits that make someone well-suited to entrepreneurship make that person vulnerable to mental health diseases and suicide. Creativity leads to big emotions; passion can lead to obsession, competitiveness, and risk-taking have the downside of loss and deep feelings of failure. Anxiety has a way of spinning out of control when we consider the unknown– the “what ifs” of life. What if my business fails? What if I can’t make payroll? The stress of running a new business, shouldering business debt, making important decisions daily, and having the sole responsibility of revenue, all while attempting to find a work-life balance to manage the household and personal tasks—clearly, this can take its toll.
For entrepreneurs, being proactive makes a great deal of sense when it comes to protecting mental health, and there are several things they can do to make their business succeed while keeping mentally healthy.
Having a support system in place is key. Ideally, an entrepreneur has a supportive family and encouraging friends and associates who will listen, reassure, and help as needed.
- Tapping into free resources instead of taking on responsibility after responsibility – networks of mentors and coaches; online communities where they can share and receive tips and advice. Sky’stheLimit.org is a perfect example of this. Small business owners literally surround themselves with coaches and mentors who can identify proactive ways to move forward.
- Practicing self-care is always important, whether it be through exercise, meditation, or taking time to go outside and be in nature (or all of the above.)
- Reaching out for professional help is always a vital step in staying mentally strong.
- Finally, connecting with other entrepreneurs can help nurture feelings of belonging and being with others who understand the process intimately.
Sky’sTheLimit.org welcomes entrepreneurs to check out its free resources and platform to connect with our entrepreneur community and sign up for free mentoring, coaching, and business advice. Entrepreneurs, you are not alone!
About SkysTheLimit.org:
SkysTheLimit.org is a non-profit organization whose platform connects underrepresented entrepreneurs with volunteer business professionals for free one-on-one mentoring. Sky’s the Limit’s mission is to build a global community where all entrepreneurs and their allies can build meaningful relationships and grow together. The team also provides education and training opportunities to all members as well as monthly funding opportunities.
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