One in five small business owners do not take annual leave, finds Direct Line

One in five small business owners do not take annual leave, and those who do take an average of just 13 days off a year, according to research from Direct Line.

This is significantly lower than the 28 days most employees are entitled to, and highlights how running a business can take a serious toll on mental well-being.

April marks Stress Awareness Month, first launched in 1992 to highlight the causes and impact of stress on public health.

For entrepreneurs, the issue is particularly pressing as the pressure of managing finances, overseeing staff and trying to maintain steady growth often leaves business owners unable to switch off.

Many said they find it difficult to take breaks or set boundaries, and are at increased risk of burnout.

A Uswitch survey found that 60% of small business owners feel very or somewhat guilty about taking time off.

Only 6% say they never work while on annual leave.

Separate research by Business Debtline shows that a third of small business owners lose sleep over their finances.

According to Joe Phelan, business savings account expert at money.co.uk, while being your own boss offers flexibility, it also brings long hours, financial uncertainty and the weight of responsibility.

These factors can make it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and can quickly turn the excitement of entrepreneurship into a source of overwhelm.

Practical steps like setting structured work hours, taking breaks, maintaining self-care routines and seeking support from peers or financial advisers can help suggested Phelan.

Phelan added: “Stress and poor mental health are among the UK’s most pressing public health challenges.

“Yet, for small business owners, managing stress is not just about personal well-being – it can directly impact their business’ success.

“Every April since 1992, Stress Awareness Month has aimed to shine a light on the causes of stress and its impact. It’s a crucial reminder that mental health struggles shouldn’t be ignored and that seeking support can be incredibly valuable.”