A recently published report on the future of mental healthcare estimated that direct and indirect costs of mental health calculate to over 4% of the global gross domestic product (GDP) which is more than the cost of cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory disease combined. Earlier in 2018, the private American health insurance company Blue Cross Blue Shield reported from its database that depression had risen 33% since 2013. The question posed from this statistics is if mental health disorder affliction is increasing or are more people seeking help for their mental health disorder? Although these answers are difficult to differentiate, it is true that our society is recognizing mental illness as an ongoing epidemic. While these numbers reflect the general population, studies have shown that certain professions are at a higher risk of developing a mental health disorder. Some of the highest rates of depression can be found among entrepreneurs, law, health care professionals, teachers, and social workers.
Forbes recently published an article highlighting the connection between mental health disorders and entrepreneurship. Over the past ten years, entrepreneurship has been drastically rising in the United States with 6% of the U.S. population owning their own business as their primary source of income and a much higher number owning their own business as a means for a secondary income. Entrepreneurship is risky, stressful, and expensive resulting in an increased amount of stress that can have adverse effects on an individual’s mental health. Many believe that individuals who choose to adopt an entrepreneurial role tend to be independent, driven, hardworking and insensitive to criticism. They also tend to be sensitive to any negative stigma associated with their role leading many of these individuals to deal with their internal problems alone, instead of seeking advice from others. Internal stress can easily result in inner turmoil leading to feelings of self-doubt and depression. Friends and family of these individuals are often entirely unaware of these circumstances and are surprised to learn of these significant challenges are common among highly successful people. It is essential to keep in mind that professional success and financial freedom does not always equate to a healthy mindset. So how can aspiring or established entrepreneurs deal with their internal struggles healthily to avoid mental illness?
Seek professional help before it’s too late
For leaders and business owners, scheduling regular sessions with a mental health professional to avoid burnout or depression can not only reduce stress levels but can also help keep the business and it’s leadership intact. Digital mental health sessions, which can offer accessible and easy solutions, are also an option for those individuals who are not able to leave the office during working hours. Taking an online emotional health quiz or mental health quiz can provide clues to whether an individual is in need of mental health counseling.
Disconnect to reconnect
We live in a hyper-connected world, which can keep us glued to our computer screens, tablets and smartphones keep us connected around the clock. For entrepreneurs, the work seems never-ending as emails and projects seem to be never-ending. It is necessary to schedule time away from technology to connect with friends and family as they allow you to rest and recharge. Having some time for yourself can not only prevent a stress-induced meltdown, but it can create stronger bonds and memories between you and your loved ones.
Take care of your body
Mental health is firmly connected to the physical body, so it is essential to take care of your body by exercising daily, eating whole foods, drinking an adequate amount of water, getting at least eight hours of sleep each night and taking charge of your health by visiting the doctor for necessary screening tests. A broken or unhealthy body can have a substantially adverse impact on your mind which can easily cross over into your professional life.