Formula 1 Champ Reveals Surprising Mental Health Ordeal

In a world as high-octane as Formula 1, even the greatest champions face battles far away from the track.

At a Glance

  • Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time Formula 1 champion, has battled with depression from an early age.
  • He faced pressure from pursuing a career in motor racing and bullying at school.
  • Hamilton has struggled with depression as an adult and found it difficult to open up about his experiences.
  • Ayrton Senna’s death in 1994 had a profound impact on him, leading to an emotional response.

Lewis Hamilton Opens Up About Mental Health Challenges

Racing legend Lewis Hamilton has shared deeply personal revelations about his lifelong battle with mental health. Through stunning candor, the seven-time Formula 1 champion discussed how depression and anxiety have intertwined with his extraordinary career. For many of us, Hamilton’s openness shines a spotlight on a topic often kept in the shadows.

 

 

Hamilton’s journey in motorsport began at the tender age of six. By thirteen, he was already battling depression, further exacerbated by bullying at school.

“I think it was the pressure of the racing and struggling at school. The bullying. I had no one to talk to,” Hamilton told The Times. He noted that Ayrton Senna’s tragic death in 1994 deeply impacted him, leading to an emotional breakdown.

Navigating Adulthood With Mental Health Struggles

Even as Hamilton rose to dizzying heights in Formula 1, his mental health struggles persisted. Speaking openly, he revealed, “I’ve struggled with mental health through my life, depression from a very early age when I was, like, 13 … when I was in my twenties I had some really difficult phases.”

As Hamilton matured, he learned to better manage his emotions and mental state. He began exploring practices like silent retreats and considered seeking therapy again, emphasizing the importance of mental health support for athletes.

Championing Mental Health Awareness in Sports

Hamilton’s mental health story is more than a personal revelation; it’s a call to action. He has been a vocal advocate, encouraging fellow drivers like Lando Norris, George Russell, and Valtteri Bottas to speak openly about their mental health challenges. He stresses the need for comprehensive mental health care within sports, fighting to dismantle the stigma surrounding the issue.