We haven’t shied away from covering the tough topics here on the blog. Entrepreneurs live with uncertainty and are more prone to anxiety and depression than the general population. I shared my dark night of the soul here and in my book. Running your own business is hard!
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service organization (SAMHSA) here:
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness, promote hope, and normalize help-seeking. Suicide affects millions of people every year, yet too many struggle in silence. Whether you’re facing challenges, supporting a friend or loved one, or are looking to help, your voice matters. This month is dedicated to recognizing the warning signs for suicide, encouraging open conversations about mental health, and connecting people to proven treatment and resources. When we stand together in strength, dignity, hope, and purpose, we can make a difference—we can help save lives.
In the past, I have shared statistics from the Startup Snapshot Seventh Edition, including statistics for founders and what percentages regularly experience extreme stress. anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. If you do, please know that many of your colleagues also struggle. Follow the link above and you will see that 72% of founders reported that their business impacted their mental health. “The startup grind takes a major toll on founder mental health.”
I am excited to see that Startup Snapshot has an entire section of their website devoted to content around founder wellbeing. We need to keep talking about the struggle, and not only when we lose one of our own.
In addition, they have started The Inner Circle by Startup Snapshot. Their description on LinkedIn says:
The Inner Circle is a private network for coaches, therapists, and wellbeing experts supporting today’s leading entrepreneurs.
Launched by Startup Snapshot, this invitation-only community brings together world-class practitioners, exclusive research, and deep peer connection to empower those at the forefront of founder wellbeing.
Built on years of psychological research into the mindset of startup leaders, The Inner Circle addresses the unique demands of entrepreneurial support.
Our members gain access to:
- Live expert sessions led by top psychologists and researchers
- Exclusive founder & VC data from Startup Snapshot’s ongoing studies
- Real-world case studies from behind the scenes of startup building
- A curated expert community across disciplines and geographies
- Opportunities for visibility and collaboration with ecosystem leaders
The Inner Circle is redefining how the mental resilience of entrepreneurs is supported — through science, strategy, and shared experience.
At the moment, it is by invitation only. I am thrilled to see there are professionals dedicated to helping founders and that there are communities forming for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Small business is a vital engine of our economy. Supporting the mental health of founders will benefit all of us.
