The Unseen Struggle: Entrepreneurs and Their Mental Health

As an entrepreneur in the mental health space, I understand firsthand the unique pressures and challenges that come with building and sustaining a business. Entrepreneurship is often romanticized as a path to freedom and financial independence, and glamorized as the pinnacle of professional success. The idea of building something from the ground up, creating jobs and sustaining them, and innovating in ways that can change the world is undeniably appealing. But the reality is far more complex. The mental toll can be substantial, affecting not only the entrepreneur but also their relationships and overall well-being.

The Unique Pressures

Starting and running a business involves navigating a landscape filled with uncertainty, financial pressures, and constant demands on time and energy. Entrepreneurs often wear many hats, from managing operations and marketing to handling customer service and finances. This multifaceted role can lead to long hours, sleep deprivation, and chronic stress.

Personally, I found myself in a VUCA environment trying to navigate the complexities of setting up a business as an expat. I decided to take a leap in 2019 leaving a full-time, reputable job just before the pandemic. After 2 years in seed and development, and over a year in construction and approvals Flourishing Minds Clinic was indeed a reality. The next step was creating visibility, building the business, and establishing the reputation of the clinic. I found myself wearing multiple hats - dealing with the business side of my role in addition to being the clinical director, and also managing a clinical case load supporting those in need of mental health services.

According to a 2019 study, entrepreneurs are 50% more likely to report having a mental health condition, and entrepreneurs are more likely to experience depression and other mood disorders compared to the general population.

Entrepreneurs often work long hours and may not have the same social support networks that employees in more traditional roles do. It is sometime hard to allow oneself that space of vulnerability when you're trying to maintain a professional image. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can exacerbate mental health problems. A study published in the Harvard Business Review found that half of CEOs reported feelings of loneliness in their roles, and of this group, 61% believe it hinders their performance.

The pressure to succeed - with a sense of responsibility towards employees and the community being served - and the fear of failure can be overwhelming for entrepreneurs. This fear can lead to a constant state of stress, making it difficult to relax or enjoy the successes that do come.

As a mental health professional in this space, I strongly believed that I had the resources I needed to cope and wing this! But I was not immune to the effects of stress on the body - it took a toll on my physical health and wellbeing. Our mind and body are connected and stress can have a significant impact on our health and wellbeing.

Effective Strategies for Managing Mental Health

Prioritizing Self-Care

Self-care is essential for managing stress and maintaining mental health. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques like mindfulness meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress levels. These techniques encourage present-moment awareness and relaxation, reducing the impact of stress on the body and mind. I would also add Tai chi to the list. I found it gentle and effective in balancing my energy to stay present-focused. Scheduling regular breaks and vacations can also prevent burnout. These basic self-care practices can significantly improve mood and energy levels, making it easier to handle the pressures of running a business. Yes, it is easier said than done but taking time for self-care is crucial. I found it helpful to schedule time for self-care just like everything else I'd schedule in.

Building a Support Network

Having a strong support network can help mitigate feelings of isolation. This can include mentors, business peers, family, and friends who understand the entrepreneurial journey and can offer advice, encouragement, and a listening ear. I couldn't have navigated this space without the support of my husband, amazing friends and some inspiring colleagues. It can be quite helpful to join business communities that can offer a supportive space. One such supportive community in Qatar is The Pancake Club, which is dedicated to "nurturing the well-being and resilience of business owners and entrepreneurs worldwide" - Stefan Lindberg-Jones

Professional Help and Counseling

Professional counseling or therapy can provide a safe space for entrepreneurs to discuss their challenges and develop coping strategies. Services like the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can offer confidential counseling and support, which has been shown to reduce workplace stress and absenteeism. You can gain valuable tools and strategies that can help navigate this space. I've worked with other entrepreneurs supporting their mental health journey and what always resonates is that need to have a space where one can be vulnerable and not be judged. I'd encourage fellow entrepreneurs to reach out for support if needed. You are NOT alone!

Work-Life Balance

Striving for a healthy work-life balance is essential. Setting boundaries between work and personal life can help ensure that neither area is neglected. This might involve setting specific work hours, taking weekends off, and dedicating time to hobbies and family. I believe this is one of the most important aspect - as this sets the stage for the much needed self-care. When you're a high-functioning perfectionist like me, you sometimes need a wake up call (in my case, my physical health) to take stock in a different way! I'm still a work in progress as I can get easily carried away by the need to do more and support more, but I'm more mindful about the need to create that balance.

Entrepreneurship is a rewarding but challenging journey that can take a significant toll on one's health - both at a physical and mental level. As entrepreneurs, it's crucial to acknowledge these challenges and take proactive steps to manage them. By prioritizing self-care, seeking support, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, we can navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship more effectively. Remember, taking care of your mental health is not just beneficial for you but also for the success and sustainability of your business.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to substitute medical advice or guidance. If you are dealing with any physical ailment or mental health condition, please consult a physician or mental health professional.

Join the conversation: How do you manage mental health while navigating the entrepreneurial journey? Share your experiences, insights, and strategies in the comments. Your story could inspire and help others in the community facing similar challenges. Let's support each other in building not just successful businesses, but also a healthy entrepreneurial ecosystem.