Healthy work-life balance has a direct affect on your physical health as well. Lack of support has been linked to depression, insomnia and has been shown to alter the function of our brain, leading to other issues like cardiovascular disease, inflammation and even suicide. Staying connected, having support and finding groups of entrepreneurs and small-business owners that share your struggles helps.

Being your own mental health advocate is key to staying healthy. Taking 5 minutes out of your day to complete deep-breathing exercises or taking a 30 minute meditative walk, makes a big difference. Put yourself first, always. Talk about your mental health with those around you. Leave your pride at the door.

Being your own mental health advocate is key to staying healthy. Taking 5 minutes out of your day to complete deep-breathing exercises or taking a 30 minute meditative walk, makes a big difference. Put yourself first, always. Talk about your mental health with those around you. Leave your pride at the door.

Professionals mental health advocates and medical practitioners can see outside of our periphery and help deal with the past and be able to move forward for the betterment of ourselves and our businesses. The truth is everyone needs professional help at some point, and don't let anyone else tell you different.

Daily practice is simply something you decide to do for your self, and it is non-negotiable. You don't need to carve out two hours a day or make it complicated, but do make it something you enjoy and that gives your mind and body some peace. As business ownership pulls you in so many directions, knowing you have this sacred bit of time every day is priceless.

This pill might be hard to swallow. Regardless of whether you are an entrepreneur, CEO, or retiree, we all need a healthy dose of realness. Seeing your struggles for what they are, and accepting them as part of who you are, makes it possible for us to move forward without shame and judgement. Lastly, if you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please reach out for help now. You are valuable and needed beyond how successful you are or how well your business does. Your metal health is an integral part of your success, and overall well-being. Give it the attention it needs. • Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ()at 1-800-273-8255 for support and assistance from a trained counselor. • The National Alliance on Mental Illness ()also has a free hotline as well as support groups and education and can be reached at 1-800-950-NAMI. • Crisis Text Line ()is a global not-for-profit organization providing free mental-health texting service through confidential crisis intervention via SMS message. The organization's services are available 24 hours a day, every day, throughout the United States, Canada, UK and Ireland. Text HOME to 741741.