Formula 1 star opens up about mental health struggles

Lewis Hamilton Opens Up on Lifelong Battle with Mental Health: “It’s Been a Constant Struggle”

In a heartfelt revelation, seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up about his lifelong struggles with mental health, admitting that he has battled depression since a young age. The 39-year-old racing icon, who holds the record for the most victories (105) and podium finishes (201) in the sport’s history, discussed his personal challenges in an interview published today.

A Champion’s Hidden Battle

Hamilton reflected on the pressures he faced growing up in Stevenage, where bullying and experiences of racism weighed heavily on him as he pursued a career in racing. “I had some really difficult phases in my 20s,” he shared. “I’ve struggled with mental health throughout my life. Depression hit me from a very early age, around 13. I think it was the pressure of racing, combined with struggling at school and the bullying. I had no one to talk to.”

The Pressures of Early Fame

Despite his remarkable achievements on the track, Hamilton revealed that his mental health battles have persisted into adulthood. He credited a period of self-reflection during the 2020 coronavirus pandemic as a turning point. During this time, he adopted a routine of waking up at 5 a.m. to meditate and go for runs—a practice that has helped him find a sense of peace amid the chaos. “It was tough to calm my mind initially,” Hamilton admitted. “But it’s been an incredible way of connecting with myself and understanding my feelings.”

Navigating Mental Health Through Meditation

As he prepares for a new chapter with Ferrari after 12 successful years at Mercedes, Hamilton acknowledged that he has rarely sought professional help. “I spoke to a therapist once, but it wasn’t really helpful,” he said candidly. “I’d like to find someone today.”

A Future with Ferrari

Hamilton is not only known for his fearless performances on the track but also for his willingness to speak out about mental health issues. His openness is echoed in a poignant Instagram post from 2022, where he stated, “It’s been such a tough year already. I’ve struggled mentally and emotionally for a long time, and to keep going is a constant effort. But we have to keep fighting—there’s still so much to do and to achieve.”

The Importance of Breaking the Silence

Hamilton’s story highlights the importance of mental health awareness, particularly in high-pressure environments like Formula 1. As he prepares for the next race, fans and fellow athletes alike continue to rally behind him, emphasizing that even champions face their own battles off the track.