If you’ve met me during business meetings or at networking events, you’d probably see me as a person who always has it together with a smiling face. But here’s the truth: like many of us, I’ve had my battles with mental health, particularly a tough fight with depression. I’m sharing my story today because it’s the mental health awareness month & I know it’s crucial for us in the entrepreneurial community to recognise that it’s okay not to always be okay.
There was a time when every day felt heavier than the last. I’d wake up feeling a dread so intense that getting out of bed felt like a monumental task. My business, usually my passion and drive, felt like distant echoes through a fog of despair. I kept up appearances, always smiling and nodding, but inside, I was shouting for help in silence.
It wasn’t just any friend who noticed though their support has been invaluable, but a professional who could read between the lines during one of our random conversation at a wedding. He picked up on subtle cues in my voice that something was amiss. Without hesitation, he stepped in to guide me through what would become a transformative journey. Reflecting on that moment, I realize how fortunate I was to have professional help so readily available—a blessing not everyone can claim.
This whole experience underscored a crucial realization: while friends offer necessary emotional support and a listening ear, overcoming deep-seated mental health issues often requires professional guidance. Professionals provide structured solutions and treatments tailored to your needs, helping chart a course out of the darkness on a clear, time-bound plan.
This wasn’t just about getting back on my feet; it was about understanding and embracing my vulnerabilities, not just for my well-being but also for my business. When I started consultation, I wasn’t just healing myself; I was also rebuilding the emotional foundations of my entrepreneurial spirit. If I had realized this need for help earlier, my life could be quite different now, potentially in many positive ways. It’s crucial to recognize the need for support without waiting for a crisis. Accepting that you need help and taking action early can prevent reaching those darkest moments and pave the way for a healthier, more resilient future.
For my fellow entrepreneurs reading this, know that experiencing mental health challenges does not diminish your capabilities or successes. It merely shows that you’re human. And while friends play a crucial role in our lives, recognizing when professional help is needed is not just okay—it’s crucial. It’s a testament to your strength and an essential step toward true recovery.
I encourage you to open up about your experiences, either here in the comments or with someone you trust. How has the journey been for you? Do you find it hard to balance mental wellness with the pressures of entrepreneurship? Let’s break down these barriers together and build a supportive community where seeking help is seen as part of our strength, not a weakness.
