Entrepreneurial Mental Health and Burnout in Poverty-Stricken Areas of South Africa

Résumé fourni par la source

Abstract Entrepreneurship has long been recognised as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation, yet it often comes with significant mental health challenges, particularly for entrepreneurs operating in poverty-stricken areas of South Africa. However, limited scholarly attention has been paid to understanding these issues within the unique socio-economic and cultural context of South Africa, where structural inequalities and economic instability exacerbate psychological strain. This study therefore sought to address this gap by investigating the prevalence, causes and consequences of burnout and mental health challenges among entrepreneurs in poverty-stricken areas of South Africa and by identifying context-appropriate strategies that promote psychological well-being, resilience and sustainable economic participation. A systematic literature review was undertaken using reputable academic databases, with sources screened for relevance, recency and quality. Thematic analysis was applied to identify thematic patterns, drawing on theoretical frameworks including the Job Demands–Resources model, Conservation of Resources theory, Self-Determination Theory and the Self-Efficacy Model. Findings revealed that burnout among South African entrepreneurs is driven by the interplay of excessive job demands, scarce resources and socio-economic pressures, resulting in productivity losses, business instability and compromised mental health. However, resilience-building strategies such as mindfulness-based interventions, peer support networks and targeted policy measures proved effective in mitigating these effects. The study recommended integrating mental health support into entrepreneurial development programmes, expanding access to affordable well-being resources and fostering peer-based networks to strengthen resilience and ensure sustainable economic participation.

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