Lewis Hamilton Opens Up About Lifelong Battle with Depression Following School Bullying
Lewis Hamilton has shared that he has faced mental health challenges throughout much of his life, largely stemming from being bullied at school and the immense pressure of racing.
The seven-time Formula One world champion revealed that he has struggled with depression since his teenage years. Growing up in Stevenage with mixed-race parents, he encountered racism during his childhood.
In an interview with the Sunday Times, Hamilton stated, “When I was in my 20s, I had some really difficult phases. I mean, I’ve struggled with mental health throughout my life. [I’ve had] depression. From a very early age, when I was, like, 13. I think it was the pressure of racing and the challenges at school. The bullying. I had no one to talk to.”
During a period of introspection during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, Hamilton began waking up at 5 AM to meditate before going for a run. “I would struggle initially to calm my mind,” he admitted. “But it’s a really great way of getting in touch with myself, my inner feelings, understanding what I can do.”
Currently sitting sixth in the driver standings after achieving two Grand Prix wins in the 2024 season, Hamilton is set to join Ferrari at the end of the campaign after a 12-year tenure with Mercedes.
When asked if he has ever sought therapy, Hamilton responded, “I spoke to one woman, years ago, but that wasn’t really helpful. I would like to find someone today.”
