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Depression among entrepreneurs: a scoping review

Author

Listed:
  • Lauren Cubbon

    (Mi’kmaq Family Support)

  • Kristin Darga

    (Impact Founder)

  • Uira Duarte Wisnesky

    (University of Alberta)

  • Liz Dennett

    (University of Alberta)

  • Christine Guptill

    (University of Alberta)

Abstract

Entrepreneurial work can be challenging, including financial dependence on both the success of the venture and the continued work ability and well-being of the founder. Popular media suggests that entrepreneurs are at increased risk of depression and suicide; however, the research literature addressing this risk is unclear. Accordingly, this study aimed to explore what is known about depression among entrepreneurs. Scoping review and thematic synthesis of the findings. Thirty-four articles fit the criteria and corresponded to four overarching themes: Social relations, Personal factors, Work characteristics, and Mental health. Each theme contains sub-themes regarding the psychological impact of entrepreneurial work. These include personal factors such as gender, personality traits, and routine. Other factors include significant time demands, putting entrepreneurs at risk for social isolation and relationship strain. These may result in feelings of failure and shame, while stigma and a need to project a positive brand identity may prevent entrepreneurs from seeking the help that they need. This review demonstrates the variety of factors that impact entrepreneurs’ mental health. The themes that emerged from this work are congruent with a diathesis-stress model of depression. Together, these factors may contribute to a risk of depression and suicide among entrepreneurs that is, as yet, relatively unexplored in peer-reviewed research literature.

Suggested Citation

  • Lauren Cubbon & Kristin Darga & Uira Duarte Wisnesky & Liz Dennett & Christine Guptill, 2021. "Depression among entrepreneurs: a scoping review," Small Business Economics, Springer, vol. 57(2), pages 781-805, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:sbusec:v:57:y:2021:i:2:d:10.1007_s11187-020-00382-4
    DOI: 10.1007/s11187-020-00382-4
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Gubik, Andrea S. & Vörös, Zsófia, 2023. "Why narcissists may be successful entrepreneurs: The role of entrepreneurial social identity and overwork," Journal of Business Venturing Insights, Elsevier, vol. 19(C).
    3. Andric, Mateja & Hsueh, Josh Wei-Jun & Zellweger, Thomas & Hatak, Isabella, 2024. "Parental divorce in early life and entrepreneurial performance in adulthood," Journal of Business Venturing, Elsevier, vol. 39(3).
    4. Qifan Wang & Sajjad Nawaz Khan & Muhammad Sajjad & Irshad Hussain Sarki & Muhammad Noman Yaseen, 2023. "Mediating Role of Entrepreneurial Work-Related Strains and Work Engagement among Job Demand–Resource Model and Success," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-19, March.
    5. Norizzati Bahsri & Zaleha Yazid & Zafir Mohamed Makhbul & Nor Asiah Omar, 2023. "Systematic Literature Review on the Factors Affecting the Well-Being of Entrepreneurs in Malaysian SMEs," SAGE Open, , vol. 13(2), pages 21582440231, June.

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