The October Health 2025 report estimates that mental health issues in South Africa are more costly than either crime or social grants. It estimates a R250 billion cost as the result of 452 million lost work hours per year. On an individual level, this lack of support results in a tragic 253 suicide attempts per day.
No one is immune from mental health issues, but there are several factors that make entrepreneurs particularly susceptible. If they have employees, entrepreneurs bear the weight of responsibility for multiple livelihoods, but even if they work alone, they are responsible to their customers and families. They are time-stressed, cash-stressed, and often lack a network they can confide in. The pressure to secure cashflow and pay salaries, month after month, can wear entrepreneurs down physically and mentally.
So, what is to be done?
“Fortunately, there are several actions entrepreneurs can take to lessen this load and reduce stressors that might lead to or exacerbate mental health problems,” says Palesa Mabasa, Business Development Head for SME funding at FNB.
Fortunately, there are several actions entrepreneurs can take to lessen this load and reduce stressors that might lead to or exacerbate mental health problems,” says Palesa Mabasa, Business Development Head for SME funding at FNB.
“The first is to realise the link between physical and mental health, and to reduce or avoid physical triggers. These might include alcohol (a depressant), poor sleep and lack of exercise.”
“Second, investigate ways of automating tedious or time-consuming processes. AI assistants, invoice-generation software, and virtual meeting schedulers can all help your free up time. And once you have made this time available, prioritise rest, recuperation, and healthy activities.
“Third, have a goal in mind of creating a business that doesn’t require your constant, undivided attention. Businesses are like people. The younger they are, the more focus they require. But as they mature, they should increasingly be able to look after themselves. Put in processes that reduce risk, hire people you trust, and trust them to help your business succeed without you constantly stressing.
Fourth, speak to people. Confide in those close to you. Seek out networks of entrepreneurs who might be feeling the same stresses. And engage mental health professionals. Simply being able to vocalise what’s causing you stress brings perspective and lessens the load; and the advice you get may be invaluable.
” Mabasa emphasises one final point: “Don’t view yourself solely through the lens of your business. It’s a narrow perspective that ties your self-worth to business outcomes. There will be good days and bad days in any venture, and these fluctuations aren’t a direct reflection of who you are as a person. Your value extends far beyond your business success.”
Dimpho Masango
Soweto Sunrise News
