Entrepreneurs and Mental Health
Some Surprising Undercurrents
Entrepreneurs have unique qualities, often driven by a desire to challenge norms and create change. Restlessness, ambition, enthusiasm, determination, and creativity are crucial traits.
Entrepreneurs often face more mental health and addiction challenges than the general public, with higher rates in their families. Basically, childhood adversity leads to a higher likelihood of entrepreneurship.
Substance use disorders, ADHD, and mood disorders are more common among entrepreneurs. They report higher rates of depression (30%), ADHD (29%), substance use (12%), and bipolar disorder (11%). In comparison, the general population experiences 15% depression, 5% ADHD, 4% substance use, and 1% bipolar disorder.
One-third of entrepreneurs have two or more mental health conditions, and 18% have three or more.
OCD, dyslexia, and Asperger’s Syndrome are also notable conditions. Asperger’s has been identified in entrepreneurs like Elon Musk and Bill Gates. Peter Thiel suggests this mild autism could benefit companies by encouraging new ideas.
Two theories exist about the link between entrepreneurship and mental health conditions. Some say certain traits are valuable in the startup world, while others believe entrepreneurs choose self-employment or…
