Addressing Mental Health Struggles Among South African Entrepreneurs

In recognition of World Mental Health Day on October 10, a group of small business owners seized the opportunity to organise an “Investing in Mind” event, shedding light on the pressing mental health challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the business world.

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Entrepreneurs, in their relentless pursuit of success, often become deeply entangled in the daily struggles of running their businesses, inadvertently sidelining their mental well-being.

Shawn Theunissen, the founder of Property Point, shared his insights at the event, drawing from his over 15 years of experience working with entrepreneurs. He emphasised the profound impact of mental health issues on small business owners.

“Small businesses have faced formidable challenges, compounded by the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic. Economic downturns and business disruptions resulting from factors such as load-shedding, looting, flooding, and recent explosions in Johannesburg have all significantly affected the revenue of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These external pressures have exacerbated mental health challenges among entrepreneurs.”

Theunissen highlighted the four most common mental health concerns experienced by small business owners, stressing the importance of tackling these issues, reducing stigma, and fostering open conversations about mental health in South Africa.

“The prevalent mental health challenges for most entrepreneurs include stress and neglect of self-care, doubt and uncertainty, social isolation, and the weight of shame and stigma.”

He emphasised that entrepreneurs must recognise the significance of raising awareness about mental health and nurturing mental well-being within their businesses as they navigate the tumultuous journey of building and expanding their enterprises.

“By addressing stress, doubt, social isolation, and the stigma associated with mental health, entrepreneurs can pave a healthier, more sustainable path to success. In doing so, they safeguard their well-being and construct more robust, resilient businesses capable of enduring the rigors of entrepreneurship. As we approach World Mental Health Day, let us remember that mental well-being represents an invaluable investment for entrepreneurs and society at large.”

Source: Fighting mental health challenges for SA entrepreneurs

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Photo: Supplied by Sandton Chronicle