Small business owners are facing concerning rates of mental ill-health, prompting calls for greater investment in tailored mental health supports. The latest data shows that small business owners (SBOs) continue to experience significantly higher rates of stress, depression, and anxiety compared to the general population. 

Research shows that small business owners find mental health support difficult to access and afford and are generally unaware of the programs and services available. More work is needed to ensure these programs are visible, accessible, and useful to small business, including through their trusted and familiar channels.

Key recommendations

• Embed the voices of SBOs
• Protect and promote mental health
• Address distress drivers
• Increase awareness, access, and uptake
• Ensure national consistency
• Support risk management
• Build the knowledge base