The impact of mental health on entrepreneurs: A theoretical approach

¹ Laboratory of Economic Sciences and Public Policies, Faculty of Economics and Management, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco
² Laboratory of Economic Sciences and Public Policies, Faculty of Economics and Management, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco
³ Laboratory of Economic Sciences, Faculty of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences – Agdal, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Published online: 3 February 2026

Abstract

In this article, we will explore how mental health impacts entrepreneurs who are uniquely vulnerable to numerous psychological stresses, including but not limited to anxiety, stress, burnout, and depression. Many of these disorders are caused by or made worse by the constant stress to achieve; the need to lead a successful business while handling the stresses of potential financial loss and isolation from friends and family—the effects can be devastating on both an individual’s health and on his/her company. Entrepreneurs’ abilities to comprise informed decisions, be creative, and remain productive, are most affected by performance anxiety; burnout; and the fear of making mistakes or failing. Anxiety, burnout, and fear of failure create a cycle which produces greater overall problems (both personally and professionally) for the entrepreneur, threatening their ability to establish and sustain their business over time.