October is Mental Health Awareness Month – a time to reflect on mental health and what retailers can do to support positive mental health in the workplace. In today’s fast-paced business environment, prioritising mental health is more important than ever, particularly for small business owners.
NASBO Program
Beyond Blue’s National Workplace Mental Health Program, the NASBO program, aims to support this crucial aspect of business management. With an increasing number of Australians acknowledging the importance of mental well-being, the NASBO program serves as a vital resource, helping small business owners navigate the challenges they face in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and the unique pressures of being a small business.
The NASBO program has already made significant strides since its launch, receiving over 16,000 inquiries and facilitating nearly 7,500 booked assessments. This highlights the pressing need for mental health support among small business owners. In the last quarter alone, the program received 1,456 inquiries, with an average wait time of just five days for assessments – shorter waiting times is a key component of the success of the program.
One of the striking statistics from the NASBO program is the recovery rate of 68% for participants this quarter. This figure speaks to the effectiveness of the program in addressing mental health challenges. Many small business owners seek help for issues like work-related stress, general anxiety, and the overwhelming pressures of maintaining a business. In particular, the stressors associated with running a small business—such as financial uncertainties, regulatory pressures, and the ever-evolving landscape of technology—can be particularly daunting.
Interestingly, almost half of the participants in the NASBO program are sole traders, indicating that those who operate independently may feel the weight of these pressures more acutely. Sole traders often lack the support systems available in larger organisations, making it essential for them to seek external help. The program not only provides assessments but also offers tailored support that can lead to significant improvements in mental health.
The industries represented in the program also highlight where mental health challenges are most pronounced. Healthcare leads as the industry with the highest participation, followed by professional services and construction. Notably, retail ranks as the fourth largest industry for participants, revealing that mental health issues are pervasive across diverse sectors. This data illustrates that no industry is immune to the pressures of modern business, reinforcing the need for comprehensive mental health initiatives.
The reasons for seeking help are varied, ranging from work-related stress and general anxiety to more specific concerns like fear of the future, compliance issues, and the impact of changing consumer behaviors. As small business owners grapple with financial pressures, cost of living challenges, and the fear of technological advancements—such as AI—support through programs like NASBO becomes crucial.
You can read more about the NASBO Program and other Beyond Blue resources here.
