With World Mental Health Day being held last month the ATO is reminding everyone with a small business that they understand people experience feelings of stress, anxiety and even depression while operating their business. Most of us would say we are aware of the signs but it’s always good to be on the lookout, some of the ‘red flags’ the ATO advises are:

• finding it hard to concentrate
• avoiding necessary day-to-day tasks and obligations
• feeling irritable, stressed or teary
• constantly thinking of work, even during personal time
• being unable to sleep
• disconnecting from friends and family
• changing eating and/or drinking habits

We understand not everyone is comfortable discussing their feelings so if you do not feel like you are able to discuss these with your Accountant the ATO is providing a special line on 13 11 42. The ATO’s aim is to assist in alleviating some of the above feelings created based on ATO obligations. The ATO will be able to discuss tailored payment plans or delaying a lodgement or payment – they will also allow you to nominate someone else to discuss these with the ATO if you are unable. They will even call you back after hours at a time more suitable so this does not add to the stress of running you day to day business.

Your mental health is important – if you’re experiencing stress, anxiety or depression, visit the Beyondblue website at beyondblue.org.au or contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 any time.