Lewis Hamilton revealed he has struggled with mental health issues for most of his life due to being bullied at school and the pressure of racing.

The 39-year-old is one of the most successful Formula 1 drivers in history, having won more races (105) than anyone else, and also holds the records for most pole positions (104), and podium finishes (201).

But despite his career successes, the seven-time world champion says he had “some really difficult phases” since his teenage years, admitting he has “struggled with mental health through my life”.

Hamilton also experienced racism as a child growing up in Stevenage, telling Sunday Times: “When I was in my 20s, I had some really difficult phases. I mean, I’ve struggled with mental health through my life.

“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.”

Following a period of soul-searching amid the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, Hamilton began waking at 5am to meditate before going for a run.

“I would struggle initially to calm my mind,” he said. “But it’s a really great way of getting in touch with myself, my inner feelings, understanding what I can do.”

Hamilton, who earlier this season became the oldest driver to win an F1 race in the 21st century, will not add to his tally of championship titles this year.

He sits sixth in the current driver standings following two Grand Prix wins during the 2024 season and trails the championship leader, Max Verstappen, by 157 points with only 150 left to win.

Hamilton will move to Ferrari at the end of the campaign after 12 years with Mercedes.

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.”

If you are affected by these issues or want to talk, please contact the Samaritans on the free helpline 116 123, or visit the website www.samaritans.org