Hamilton opens up on ‘depression’ struggles

Seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has revealed he has struggled with depression for much of his life.

The 39-year-old sits as the most successful driver in F1 history with 105 wins and 201 podium results to his name.

Hamilton made his F1 debut in 2007 with McLaren and despite realising his dream of becoming a world champion just a year later, the Briton admitted he went through challenging periods in his life.

“When I was in my twenties I had some really difficult phases,” Hamilton told the Sunday Times. “I mean, I’ve struggled with mental health through my life.”

When asked to expand on the woes he has faced, Hamilton added: “Depression. 

“From a very early age, when I was, like, 13. I think it was the pressure of the racing and struggling at school. The bullying. I had no one to talk to.”

Mercedes' team principal Toto Wolff spoke earlier this year about his own mental health struggles while managing the highly successful F1 team. 

When asked if he has ever seen a therapist, Hamilton replied: “I spoke to one woman, years ago, but that wasn’t really helpful. 

“I would like to find someone today.”

Hamilton will make a switch to Ferrari next year, marking just his second team change in the last 17 years. 

Detailing how he has grown as a person during his life, Hamilton stated: “You’re learning about things that have been passed down to you from your parents, noticing those patterns, how you react to things, how you can change those. 

“So what might have angered me in the past doesn’t anger me today. I am so much more refined.”