With 2020 being a stressful year for everyone, particularly those launching their own ventures, Advance Queensland and River City Labs have launched a free mental health program for the state’s startup founders.
The Mental Health for Founders service is an opportunity for founders meet with an objective healthcare professional that also provides tools to help entrepreneurs continue their startup journey.
Delivered through CleverMinds Consulting, the program builds on a pilot launched in August 2020 by Advance Queensland and River City Labs.
95% of the participants surveyed after the pilot said they highly valued this service and, based on its success, the program has now been extended to all Queensland-based founders.
Pauline Fetaui, General Manager of River City Labs said, “Personally as a founder myself and as a person working with founders, I know the pressure and loneliness that comes from creating something new – from nothing.
“The mental chatter on top of that, lack of financial backing as you build it and the obstacles are endless, add on Covid-19 and it’s a recipe for disaster.
“Seeking someone who can help you unpack your thoughts and provide you tools to navigate it when it gets tough, is an investment with a significant return. We, unfortunately, as founders work both ends of the stick and burnout is real.”
Included in the program are independent, confidential counselling to help with issues including:
- work-related stress
- dealing with change
- family and relationships
- personal conflict
- financial stress
- depression and anxiety
- diagnosis support.
Spaces are limited and appointment details are available through the Advance Queensland website.
