The Hushed Dangers of Startup Depression
Just as broken bones are a danger inherent in riding a motorbike, depression is one of the dangers inherent in trying to start a company.<p>Understanding this leads to two helpful realizations:<p>1. It's nothing to be ashamed of and should not be stigmatised<p>2. You would be wise to take precautions to protect against the danger (just like you would wear a helmet when riding).<p>The danger is particularly strong for solo founders, simply because of the lifestyle some have to live. Long periods of time spent on your own, slow progress toward your goals -- these are signals that the depression-triggering algorithms in your mind will latch onto.<p>Some things that may work to counter those signals:<p>* Socialise with friends, family or new people every day. If you can't socialise on a particular day, spend some time making plans with people to socialise in the near future.<p>* Be having sex, and regularly. Seriously, this is a very strong signal.<p>* Exercise a lot. Run, swim, work out -- even just walk around the neighbourhood.<p>* Plan your work to have near-term achievable milestones.<p>* Eat healthily and avoid alcohol. A weak immune system leads to frequent illness, which leads to slower progress.