Running a small business takes a lot of time and energy. It can be incredibly rewarding but can also be stressful and impact your wellbeing.

It’s important to take care of your mental health and wellbeing by doing regular check ins with yourself and accessing mental health support as soon as you start to feel you might need help.

NewAccess for Small Business Owners is a free and confidential mental health coaching program, developed by Beyond Blue to give small business owners, including sole traders the support they need. 

The program uses Low-intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (LiCBT) that allows participants to recognise the way they think, act, and feel and break unhelpful thoughts. 

Over six sessions, coaches with a small business background will work with you to overcome difficult issues, providing you with practical skills to manage stress and get you back to feeling like yourself. 

At your first appointment your coach will complete an initial assessment with you, and develop a program tailored to your individual needs. 

NewAccess for Small Business Owners is available nationally by phone or video call.

Ahead for Business is a digital hub that helps small business owners take action on their mental health and wellbeing through resources and tools tailored to their specific needs.

The hub provides tailored resources, peer support, check-ups and personalised action plans and showcases the experiences of small business owners through podcasts, videos, blogs and case studies.

You can get support to help yourself, someone else, or for assistance with dealing with adverse events.