As World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10, a few small business people took the opportunity to host an investing in mind event to shed light on the pressing mental issues in small businesses.
In the relentless pursuit of success, entrepreneurs often find themselves immersed in the day-to-day challenges of running a business, inadvertently neglecting their mental health.
Shawn Theunissen, founder of Property Point, said at the event that he has over 15 years of experience working with entrepreneurs, and it is evident that mental health issues have a significant influence on small business owners.
“Small businesses have confronted immense challenges, compounded by the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.” Economic downturns and business disruptions due to factors such as load-shedding, looting, flooding, and recent explosions in Johannesburg have all significantly impacted the revenue of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These external pressures have intensified mental health challenges among entrepreneurs.”
Theunissen identified the four most frequent mental health concerns for small business owners, emphasising the need to address mental health issues, reduce stigma, and encourage open dialogues about mental health in South Africa.
“Stress and lack of self-care, doubt and uncertainty, social isolation, and shame and stigma are the mental health challenges most entrepreneurs often bear.”
He pointed out that entrepreneurs must remember the importance of raising mental health awareness and cultivating mental well-being in their businesses as they navigate the tumultuous journey of building and expanding their businesses.
“By addressing stress, doubt, social isolation, and the stigma surrounding mental health, entrepreneurs can forge a healthier, more sustainable path to success. In doing so, they will protect their well-being and build stronger, more resilient businesses that can weather the storms of entrepreneurship. As we approach World Mental Health Day, remember that mental well-being is an invaluable investment for entrepreneurs and society.”
Related Article:
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/333814/women-in-business-celebrate-womens-day/
