SHOP LOCAL: Managing health as important as cash flow for small business owners

Local Business Matters

WA Small Business Commissioner David Eaton

Being your own boss can be very exciting but anyone who has run a small business knows it also comes with its challenges.

Long hours, feeling isolated, trying to balance work and home, and worrying about cash flow can leave you mentally exhausted or stressed.

Managing your health and wellbeing is just as important as managing other aspects of your business.

Not looking after your physical and mental health can have a crippling effect on the day-to-day running of your business especially if you are a sole trader.

Experiencing stressful moments is a normal part of everyday life.

However there’s a difference between feeling a little stressed and being so overwhelmed that your mental health is compromised. Stress and anxiety can manifest in different ways ranging from difficulty in concentrating, chest pain, pounding heart and high blood pressure, to social isolation and feelings of hopelessness.

In some cases it may also lead to depression.

It is important that you seek professional assistance to diagnose your symptoms.

In Australia, it’s estimated that 45 per cent of people will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime.

You can also access a range of information, resources and assistance from Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

Alternatively, Lifeline provides crisis support and suicide prevention information on 13 11 14.

You may also consider engaging with a business adviser to help you work through any business issues, which may be contributing to your feelings of stress and anxiety and to implement workable strategies to get back on top of things.

Maintaining good mental and physical health can be beneficial.

This can be achieved by having social connections, strong personal relationships and being part of a community or business association; maintaining a healthy diet; undertaking some exercise and ensuring you get sufficient sleep.

If you’re feeling depressed or anxious remember they are treatable conditions and effective treatments are available.

The earlier you seek support, the better.

If you’re worried about how your business is performing or are involved in a business dispute that’s causing you stress, visit smallbusiness@wa.gov.au or contact one of our business advisers on 13 12 49.