Russell finding ways to deal with F1's 'emotional hangovers'

George Russell has outlined the benefits of seeking help from a psychologist, to help the Mercedes driver deal with the "emotional hangovers" the drivers are subjected to in F1. 

Racing in F1 is arguably just as mentally challenging as it is physically, perhaps even more so. Drivers deal with mental obstacles on and off the circuit, a key one for many currently being the chaotic state of the driver market ahead of the 2025 F1 season.

For the vast majority of the drivers, their journeys to reaching F1 were lonely, due to leaving school early to pursue the dream of reaching the pinnacle of motorsport. 

Russell discovered first-hand the mental challenges of getting to where he is at Mercedes today, whilst F1 itself presents its very own emotional battles every Grand Prix. 

The British driver addressed the importance of mental health ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix last month, which fell on Mental Health Awareness Week.

"I think, for me, as I've grown older, I've sort of recognised how important mental health is," Russell told select media including RacingNews365. 

"And I guess, maybe for my teenage years, when I was going through some challenging difficult moments myself, pursuing my dream out of school, not a lot of friends or people around me a similar age, you don't really understand what you're you're going through. 

"And then the emotional rollercoaster that you're on during Formula 1. Even after a good weekend, you land on Monday morning, and there is sort of this emotional hangover."

Speaking to a professional

Discovering ways to deal with the emotional and mental challenges, such as seeking professional help, has been hugely important for Russell. 

Seeing a professional has benefitted his life both in F1 and away from the world of racing, in particular it has helped remove weight from the 26-year-old's shoulders. 

He truly believes that everyone can benefit from speaking to a professional, even those who are feeling on top of the world. 

"And finding ways to deal with that, for me is so important, not only for my performance, but just for my own happiness and to enjoy my life," Russell continued.

"And I think we can all be better off by talking with a professional even if you're not feeling that you're in need of it. But just to talk with somebody to potentially take a weight off your shoulders or for me, it gives me ideas of how I can improve as a person as a professional. 

"And I really enjoy it. So the same way as I really enjoy going to the gym with my trainer and staying in shape and keeping fit. I like to try to do the same psychologically."