Advice comes amid declining mental health due to business challenges
The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand is calling on small business owners to open discussions on mental health at work as many are under distress due to current financial conditions.
Shaun Robinson, chief executive of the foundation, said small business owners should not be afraid to lead by example when talking about mental health, Radio New Zealand reported.
"Talking about their own ways of uplifting personal wellbeing, seeking support when needed, and cultivating a culture where wellbeing is front and centre at work are core to a well-functioning business," Robinson said as quoted by RNZ.
"Supporting small business owners' mental health is vital for the resilience and success of their business, as healthy well-supported leaders are better equipped to navigate challenges and lead their teams effectively."
According to Robinson, creating an environment where employees feel safe to talk about their mental health can help break the stigma over the issue.
"Encouraging these conversations not only fosters a supportive work culture but also improves overall productivity and job satisfaction," the chief executive added.
Robinson's remarks came after the latest MYOB business monitor revealed the impact of financial wellness to the mental health of small business owners.
The monitor, as reported by RNZ, found that 45% of business owners facing declining revenue have mental health challenges.
Anna-Louise Hoffmann, MYOB corporate affairs manager, told RNZ that the situation was "completely understandable" given the pressure faced by small business owners.
"They are managing rising bills, they're paying salaries, they're trying to keep their people employed, as well as trying to get customers through the door and get those sales," Hoffman said as quoted by RNZ.
"It's a lot of pressure for anyone to carry on their shoulders, so the fact they're feeling a sense of overwhelm or mental distress is completely understandable."
