Entrepreneurs tend to live pressure-filled lives. The numbers vary, but the most commonly accepted number is 72% of entrepreneurs suffer from mental health problems.
It should come as no surprise that male entrepreneurs are the least likely to group to do anything about mental health. Traditional views of masculinity, says Dr. Ryan Shelton of Zenith Labs, are the main reason why men are less likely to speak openly about mental health problems.
In this guide, Dr. Shelton discusses what actions male entrepreneurs can take to regain control of their mental health.
Table of Contents
1. Talk About It
Approximately 15 million Americans are self-employed full-time, which means there’s a tremendous entrepreneurial community to connect with. While many people are unable to talk to those closest to them for fear of not being understood, male entrepreneurs should consider reaching out to those in their field.
There are offline communities available, but resources like Reddit can be invaluable for connecting with other entrepreneurs.
2. Take a Break
Entrepreneurs are more likely to suffer from burnout than anyone else. Burnout leads directly to mental health issues, and it all results from the startup culture of “go, go, go”, according to Dr. Shelton. It’s estimated that 8% of entrepreneurs experience burnout every year.
In the cut-throat world of startups, there’s not much that can be done to reduce the pressure, other than to take a break.
Schedule vacation time every single year and take it without question. Put the phone away and leave the laptop at home for at least a week or two.
Dr. Ryan Shelton of Zenith Labs on a boat.
3. Learn to Meditate
Meditation has been proven to benefit mental health. Dr. Shelton says developing this daily habit is the single most powerful action people can take to improve their mental states. Just 30 minutes per day can transform your mental health.
Mindfulness meditation does not have to be spiritual or involve any ritual chanting. It’s as simple as closing your eyes in a quiet room, focusing on your breathing, and clearing your mind.
4. Exercise Daily
Wellness often takes a backseat in the world of entrepreneurship. With encroaching deadlines, it’s easy to forget about going to the gym.
Study after study demonstrates how beneficial regular exercise can be for mental health. The highest marks go to aerobics, team sports, and cycling.
You don’t need to carve out a huge part of your day for exercise. 30-60 minutes per day is all it takes to regain control of your mental health.
5. Eat Well
Food plays a huge role in how we feel, according to Dr. Shelton. Eating processed food will leave you feeling lethargic and perpetually tired.
Diets that are high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains show positive psychological effects. Taking regular health supplements and focusing on incorporating superfoods into your diet can help to counteract the stress of being a modern-day entrepreneur.
Final Thoughts
Dr. Ryan Shelton is a huge proponent of getting men to think about their mental health. Male entrepreneurs are being increasingly encouraged to come out and connect with others about how they feel.
Although entrepreneurship will always be stressful, by following these tips, you, too, can regain control of your mental health.
What are you doing to keep your mental health in check?
