The Psychological Impact of COVID-19 Lockdowns on Women Entrepreneurs in Low-Income Countries

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting lockdowns significantly changed the global economy, which impacted vulnerable groups, particularly women entrepreneurs in low-income nations. Women's entrepreneurship has demonstrated its significance as a crucial factor in promoting women's empowerment. It generally fosters a positive shift in the attitudes and behaviours of family members and society towards women. The global pandemic caused by COVID-19 has intensified the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. This article explores the psychological impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on women entrepreneurs in such regions, stressing how business disruptions, structural inequities, and limited access to financial support worsen mental health issues. The findings reveal that women entrepreneurs faced increased levels of burnout, depression, and anxiety, which were often aggravated by social isolation, digital gap, and exclusion from programs for the government recovery plan.