The statistics are in, and the depression rate among entrepreneurs like you and me is greater than 20% higher than that of the general population. It’s no huge surprise given the amount of pressure we are under to succeed, or the fact that many of us have a hard time separating our business from our individual identity, so every up and down is felt on a very personal level. And, let’s be honest, there can be a lot of downs on the road to profitability. Not to mention the strain that can be felt from long hours with variable pay.

So, what can you do to keep yourself out of a potentially downward spiral?

1. You can’t be afraid to name it. There is no shame in overwhelm, or depression and the first step to getting out of the cycle is admitting that you are in one.
2. Remember that failure is not a bad thing. Say what? That’s right – no one, not Einstein, Michael Jordan, Steve Jobs…made it by fearing failure.
3. If you’re still finding it difficult to get out of the rut then I would encourage you to think about lab testing. Hormones, namely vitamin D, thyroid and cortisol can have a huge impact on mood, sleep and focus.

Most importantly, don’t ever try to tough it out alone. Reach out, ask for help, ask for listening, ask for whatever is going to support you the most!