Predictive Effect of Eco-Anxiety and Climate Change Anxiety towards Mental Health Problems and Psychological Well-Being among Entrepreneurs

Abstract

Entrepreneurs face massive challenges when attempting to create sustainable businesses in the current era. This juggling act leads to eco-anxiety and climate change anxiety, which mainly affect entrepreneurs by creating concerns and ruining creativity and progress. These issues contribute to individuals' mental health problems (MHP) and severely affect psychological well-being (PWB). With this in mind, the present study investigates the impact of eco-anxiety (EA) and climate change anxiety (CCA) on MHP and PWB among Egyptian entrepreneurs. The study applied quantitatively, gathering cross-sectional data through a survey tool. The researchers collected data using online and offline modes and a convenience sampling strategy to identify Egyptian entrepreneurs.<strong> This led to 314 valid cases from which to generate the final results.</strong><strong> </strong>The researchers applied a structural model (SEM) using analysis of moment structures (AMOS) software to obtain the results. The results of the study unveil a positive effect of EA on MHP (β = 0.539; P < 0.01) but a negative impact on entrepreneurs' PWB (β = -0.005; P > 0.01). Moreover, the study also identifies a positive effect of CCA on MHP (β = 0.667; P < 0.01) but a negative on entrepreneurs' PWB (β = -0.033; P > 0.01). <strong>The study's findings will assist policymakers and mental health professionals in developing policies regarding reducing stress, anxiety, and fears about climate change among entrepreneurs.</strong> Moreover, the study results could support entrepreneurs in bringing creativity and vision to coping strategies for EA, strengthening their PWB, and improving their ability to sustain their businesses. Finally, the study would contribute to domain literature by adding an empirical perspective from a developing nation.