By Razeen Gutta
Lewis Hamilton has opened up about the mental health issues he faced throughout his life – with bullying at school and pressure to race among his struggles.
The Formula One superstar told the Sunday Times that he would like to find a therapist to talk to despite feeling in good physical shape to continue racing.
“I spoke to one woman years ago, but that wasn’t really helpful. I would like to find someone today,” he said.
“Right now, I feel I’m healthier than I’ve ever been. I’m in such a good place, physically and mentally. My reaction times are still quicker than the young guys. I think I’m a better driver than I was at 22.”
Opening up on what triggered his depression, the seven-time world champion said it all began in his youth.
“When I was in my twenties, I had some really difficult phases. I mean, I’ve struggled with mental health through my life. [I’ve had] 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.
“I would struggle initially to calm my mind. But it’s a really great way of getting in touch with myself, my inner feelings, understanding what I can do.”
Despite his struggles, Hamilton says he has found balance by working on himself and highlighted Nelson Mandela as one of his role models.
“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.
“I was just young, energetic and ruthless, but no finesse, no balance. I didn’t know how to be a team player, how to be a leader. Being a good racing driver, it’s not just about being fast, it’s about being the most rounded.
“I look to Ayrton Senna and Nelson Mandela, and those are the two people gelled together that I want to be.”
Pictured above: Lewis Hamilton.
Source: @streetfashion01
