Mental health issues in South Africa cost more than crime or social grants.

This is according to the October 2025 Health Report which estimates that mental health costs the country R250-billion annually, driven by 452 million lost working hours.

On a personal level, the lack of support contributes to 253 suicide attempts per day.

According to Palesa Mabasa, business development head for SME funding at FNB, no one is immune to mental health challenges but entrepreneurs face unique pressures.

“If you have employees, you carry the weight of multiple livelihoods. If you work alone, you’re responsible to customers and family.

Entrepreneurs are time- and cash-stressed and often lack a network of people they can confide in. The constant pressure to maintain cash flow and pay salaries can take a serious toll on both physical and mental health,” explains Mabasa.

Steps entrepreneurs can take to reduce stress and protect their well-being:

1. Mind the link between physical and mental health.

Poor sleep, lack of exercise, and alcohol consumption can all worsen mental health. Prioritising healthy routines can help reduce triggers for stress and anxiety.

2. Automate repetitive tasks.

Tools like AI assistants, invoicing software, and virtual meeting schedulers can free up time. Use this extra time to rest, recharge and engage in activities that promote wellness.

3. Build a business that can run without you.
Young businesses demand constant attention, but mature ventures should increasingly operate independently. Implement processes that reduce risk, hire trusted team members, and allow yourself to step back without worry.

4. Talk about your stress.

Confide in friends, family or other entrepreneurs who understand your challenges. Engage mental health professionals when needed. Simply voicing your struggles can bring perspective and lighten the load, and the advice you receive can be invaluable.

5. Separate your self-worth from your business.

Your value is not tied solely to business outcomes. Ventures have highs and lows; these fluctuations reflect the business, not your personal worth.

Remember, your significance extends far beyond profit and performance.

By taking deliberate steps to care for their mental health, entrepreneurs can sustain both their businesses and themselves.

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