The BDMA reflects on Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 with an interview featuring Gavin Smith, who shares how mental health impacts his role as a business owner and offers advice to others.

🎙 Interview with Gavin Smith, BDMA Director & Director at Vinci Response

Topic: Pressure & Profit – Mental Health in Business Ownership. 

Interviewer: Gavin, many people view business ownership as the ultimate path to freedom and success. What’s your take on that?

Gavin Smith: Owning a business is often seen from the outside as all fun and games – freedom, success, and flexibility, but the reality can be very different.

Interviewer: That’s a powerful contrast. Can you talk about what’s happening behind the scenes for many business owners?

Gavin Smith: Behind the scenes, it can take a serious toll on mental health. Business owners carry the weight of constant pressure, managing staff, dealing with late payments, ensuring cash flow, and making tough decisions daily.

Interviewer: That sounds incredibly challenging. What impact does that kind of pressure have over time?

Gavin Smith: The stress and isolation that come with this responsibility can lead to anxiety, burnout, and overwhelming fatigue.

Interviewer: Given those pressures, what would you suggest to business owners who might be struggling?

Gavin Smith: It’s important to acknowledge the challenges and seek support—whether through professional help, peer networks, or taking regular breaks—to protect their wellbeing and ensure long-term sustainability.