Whether your business has closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic or is still operating, here are some strategies to help you take care of your mental health.
Many business owners, leaders and managers are likely still dealing with the impact of the pandemic – mentally, emotionally and physically, which is why taking care of yourself now is so important.
Below, we detail some coping strategies, and provide information about where to turn for additional support.
Support your staff
This article looks at ways in which you can support the wellbeing of your employees in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking after yourself
Whether you’re a business owner, senior leader or a manager, to be best equipped to support your employees, it's important that you prioritise your own wellbeing – both physical and mental.
Some practical tips
- Try to maintain perspective.
- Make sure you are accessing accurate information for your situation.
- Try to stick to healthy daily routines.
- Establish regular sleeping patterns and make sure to get enough rest.
- Look after your physical health and find ways to stay active.
- Do something each day that makes you feel good.
- Participate in exercises that you find relaxing, and perhaps try therapeutic activities such as mindfulness, meditation and yoga.
Prioritise your mental health and wellbeing
Creating a wellbeing plan is one way to make sure you have the strategies in place to look after your employees’ mental health and wellbeing – and your own.
Beyond Blue’s Workplace wellbeing resources for small business owners include two useful guides.
The Personal Wellbeing Plan is designed to help small business owners ensure they have the strategies in place to look after their mental health and wellbeing. It can also help you plan for future success in your business.
The Workplace Wellbeing Plan helps small business owners who employ staff identify ways to create a mentally healthy workplace.
This guide was created by Victorian Small Business Commission for small business owners to help support their mental wellbeing helpful, too.
Access emotional support
Seek out support, both practical and emotional. Talking to other people is one way to help make sense of your situation.
In addition to speaking to colleagues and others you are close to, consider reaching out to fellow business owners and managers who can relate to your specific circumstances.
Don’t be afraid to speak with your GP or a health professional if you find it hard to stop worrying.
Additional resources
This simple checklist aims to measure whether you, as a small business owner or manager, may have been affected by depression and anxiety during the past four weeks.
HeadGear is a free an easy-to-use smartphone app designed by Black Dog Institute to build resilience and wellbeing. Download it for free here.
Smiling Mind have developed a free mindfulness program for small business owners.
The Path back from Social Isolation publication is a COVID-19 resource and free interactive training module for business leaders and employees. You can download the pdf here.