The Growing Importance of Mental Health in the Recent Past and Its Role in Entrepreneurship

Akshara Damle, a psychologist deeply rooted in the field of mental health and a successful entrepreneur, has observed the remarkable evolution of mental health awareness over the years. What was once a taboo subject has now become a cornerstone of success in personal and professional spheres. In recent years, the importance of mental health has gained significant recognition, particularly in the world of entrepreneurship.

Over the past decade, societal perceptions of mental health have undergone a profound transformation. Topics that were once stigmatized are now openly discussed. The pandemic served as a major catalyst, compelling individuals to confront stress, anxiety, and burnout—especially those in high-pressure roles like entrepreneurship. Mental health is no longer seen as an individual’s sole responsibility but as an essential component of organizational culture and success.

Entrepreneurs, in particular, face unique mental health challenges. The pressures of building something from the ground up, coupled with the uncertainty of results, often result in overwhelming stress. For many, these challenges either lead to breakdowns or become opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Mental Health as a Catalyst for Entrepreneurial Success

Mental health interventions are increasingly being recognized as tools for enhancing productivity, creativity, and resilience—qualities that are integral to entrepreneurial success. Damle highlights how mental health practices can provide clarity and focus, enabling better decision-making and fostering innovation.

He shares two real-world examples from his practice to illustrate this point:

• Overcoming Entrepreneurial Burnout: A young tech startup founder sought Damle’s guidance after grappling with chronic stress and insomnia. The relentless demands of meeting investor expectations and scaling the business had left him emotionally drained. Through therapy, they explored inner child healing techniques and implemented mindfulness practices to address stress and build resilience. Over time, the client rediscovered his passion for innovation, restructured his work-life balance, and successfully led his startup to secure funding—all while maintaining mental well-being.

• Transforming Business with Purpose: Another client, a woman in her mid-30s running a retail chain, felt stuck despite her business’s profitability. She experienced a sense of stagnation and lack of fulfillment. Through therapy and coaching, Damle helped her uncover unresolved past experiences that influenced her mindset. By developing a renewed sense of purpose and reframing her goals, she introduced creative changes to her business model. Within six months, her revenue doubled, and she expanded her outlets.

The Intersection of Mental Health and Entrepreneurship

Drawing from his own journey, Damle emphasizes that mental health is the backbone of sustainable entrepreneurship. When founding ManoSamvaada, he encountered moments of self-doubt and external challenges. However, by relying on his psychological expertise, he navigated these hurdles. His approach was not just about finding solutions but fostering a mindset of growth, adaptability, and balance.

According to Damle, the intersection of mental health and entrepreneurship is not merely about surviving the journey but thriving within it. Entrepreneurs who invest in their mental health unlock a reservoir of creativity and resilience, which often becomes their competitive advantage.

Looking Ahead

The narrative around mental health has undergone a profound shift, and its integration into entrepreneurship is only beginning. Damle advocates for mental health to be embraced as a strategic tool for growth—not just for individuals but for businesses as a whole.

For entrepreneurs, whether aspiring or established, prioritizing mental health is no longer optional. It is a necessity—a foundation upon which dreams are built and empires are created.

Akshara Damle
Celebrity Psychologist and TEDx Speaker
Founder of ManoSamvaada and Vishisht Wellness