The Importance of Mental Health in Business Ownership
As a business owner, well soon-to-be former small business owner, I am here to talk to you about mental health and how it is an often overlooked crucial aspect of your overall well-being. The demands of running a business have always been hard, especially now in this post-pandemic world; from managing finances and employees to dealing with unexpected challenges, and managing deferred payments from the periods we were forced to be closed. Collectively, these things take a toll on one’s mental health and impact their ability to effectively lead any business into the future.
Entrepreneurship can be and has been a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it has also been incredibly stressful in this post-pandemic world. The pressure to succeed, meet financial targets and manage a team can lead to high levels of anxiety, depression, and burnout, and I’m here to tell you that all of that is what I have been feeling for over a year now.
It's important to understand the impact that running a business has on your mental health and personal relationships and to prioritize self-care and some much-needed YOU time is 100% a must. I love Teddy deeply, and if you have ever run a business, you know the challenges of operating with your significant other. This is why creating a healthy work-life balance is essential for maintaining good mental health as a business owner. This can involve setting clear boundaries between work and personal life, delegating tasks, and prioritizing rest.
I went through some pretty dark moments in the last year and that made it clear that I had moved far away from myself and that some changes needed to be made to make sure that not only I survive, but our marriage as well, and I am choosing human relationships over things.
Let me end with the following: mental health is a critical aspect of business ownership and should be given the attention and care it deserves. By prioritizing self-care, creating a healthy work-life balance, and promoting a positive work environment, business owners can ensure their mental health stays a priority, and can more effectively lead their companies to success.
Let me end this section with a huge thank you to everyone who has supported us in the past and who still supports both Teddy and me. We could not have done it without you. We are not leaving Wenatchee, we plan on staying here and helping our community grow into the future in any way that we can. Huge Thank you to Storm for making the best video clips.
Trigger warning *self-harm*
Depression and thoughts of self-harm are serious mental health issues that can have devastating consequences, especially for those in high-stress environments and not to mention our fellow LGBTQ+ community who may face additional stressors such as discrimination and social stigma. It's essential for individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek help and support.
The following resources can provide immediate assistance and support for those struggling with depression and thoughts of self-harm, including those in the LGBTQ+ community:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: This 24/7 hotline provides confidential support to individuals in crisis, including those experiencing thoughts of self-harm. The number is 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Crisis Text Line: This 24/7 text line provides support to individuals in crisis, including those experiencing thoughts of self-harm. Text "HELLO" to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
The Trevor Project: This organization provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth. They offer a 24/7 helpline, support groups, and educational resources.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): This organization provides support and resources for individuals living with mental health conditions, including depression and thoughts of self-harm. They offer a helpline, support groups, and education and advocacy programs.
LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists and Psychiatrists: Talking with a mental health professional who is knowledgeable and understanding of the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, such as an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist or psychiatrist, can provide individuals with the support and resources they need to manage their mental health and overcome depression and thoughts of self-harm.
It's essential to reach out for help and support when experiencing depression and thoughts of self-harm. Remember, these conditions are treatable, and with the right resources and support, individuals can recover and lead fulfilling healthy lives.
Fortunately, mental health conditions are treatable, and there are many resources available to support individuals struggling with mental health challenges. These include:
Therapy: Talking with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help individuals better understand and manage their feelings, anxiety, stress, etc.
Medication: Certain mental health conditions can be treated with medication, prescribed by a doctor or psychiatrist.
Self-care practices: Engaging in self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, mindfulness, and spending time with loved ones, can help improve mood and reduce stress.
Support from friends and family: Having a strong support system is crucial for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. Talking to loved ones and seeking their support can make a significant impact.
Hotlines and helplines: National helplines and hotlines, such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, provide individuals with immediate support and resources for mental health treatment.
It is essential to prioritize mental health and prioritize self-care. This can include activities like exercise, meditation, mindfulness, and spending time with loved ones. Engaging in self-care practices can help improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
If you would like to learn more about myself and the journey that we have been on check out “ A piece of Elvis Garcia” produced by Storm Hedmen