Mental Health and Entrepreneurs

Why are entrepreneurs 2x-10x more likely to suffer from mental health issues? Part of the reason is that creativity correlates to certain mental illnesses. Another reason is that entrepreneurs work long hours and assume more responsibility for failure, which leads to worry and anxiety. Finally, there simply aren’t enough supports for entrepreneurs – either entrepreneurs don’t know where to go for help or the supports simply don’t exist.

This Bible reading plan will help entrepreneurs grapple with questions surrounding mental health, provide solutions, and ground those solutions in God’s truth.

Day 1: David and the Hidden Battle of Depression

When we read the Psalms, we see a man who is caught in the grips of deep emotion. King David eloquently describes the highs and lows of emotions. Although we don’t have clear evidence for the hypothesis, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that David struggled with mental health issues and depression at certain points in his life. 

David accomplished great things in his life. Entrepreneurs also accomplish great things while also fighting difficult battles. In today’s Bible reading plan on depression, let’s take a look at how David processed his deep feelings.

Bible reading from Psalms.

Day 2: The Entrepreneur and Self-Image

It’s difficult for entrepreneurs to be honest with their image. It seems like we’re surrounded by confident, attractive, successful people who build million-dollar businesses without a sweat. Even difficulties are prettied up so that there’s a “right way” to go through tough times. Eyes set. Alarm ringing at 3am. Yes, you’re going through pain, but you’re an entrepreneur. You don’t break. And so the inspirational video goes. 

At the end of the day, God wants our honest hearts, not the facades we put up for others, or the version of ourselves we’re most proud of. But to give Him that requires humility. And the terrifying truth is that if we don’t humble ourselves, God might humble us for us.

Bible reading from Luke.

Day 3: Loneliness: The Death of the Lone Wolf

What would it look like for you – as an entrepreneur – to feel fully understood and fully loved? We don’t feel that way often, do we? Rather, many entrepreneurs spend their lives feeling isolated. Lonely. Even with an office full of people. 

Research has shown that loneliness leads to poor health and early death. It exacerbates existing mental health conditions and makes progress difficult. But Christians are offered a relationship with Jesus, someone who knows every part of you and loves you always. Though human community is critical, we can rely on Jesus’ presence when that community falls short. 

Bible reading from Matthew.

Day 4: Sexual Brokenness

Jay Stringer, a professional counselor dealing in unwanted sexual behaviors, teaches us an important lesson about sexual brokenness. For many people, sexual behavior and mental health are intimately connected. Sexual behavior allows some people to express emotions they can’t access otherwise. Sexual trauma leaves lasting scars on one’s emotional wellbeing. And for many, sexual release is one of the few escapes from a life full of stress, anxiety, and disappointment. 

Today’s Bible reading devotional focuses on why lust management falls short. We can’t just bottle it up and be fine. Instead, God offers an alternative way forward.

Bible reading from Romans.

Day 5: Worry and Anxiety

Worry is a tricky subject because on the surface it seems at odds with the Christian life. If we believe in a God who is in complete control over all things, then what could we possibly have to worry about? The guilt that comes from this type of thinking only makes our anxiety that much worse.

But as entrepreneurs, we need to get honest about our anxiety. We spend countless hours wondering if products will sell, whether difficult employees will soften their hearts, and whether or not we’re spending enough time with our families. But there is truth – deep truth – in today’s reading plan.

Bible reading from 1 Peter.