Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up on his mental health struggles in a candid social media post.
After being cruelly denied a record-breaking eighth championship last season, Hamilton has begun this season slowly, and is currently in fifth position with 16 points from the first two races.
Just weeks out from the Australian Grand Prix, the 37-year-old Brit took to his Instagram account to share details of his struggle with his adoring fans.
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“It’s been such a tough year already with everything that is happening around us,” Hamilton wrote in an Instagram story.
“Hard some days to stay positive. I have struggled mentally and emotionally for a long time, to keep going is a constant effort but we have to keep fighting, we have so much to do and to achieve.
“I’m writing to let you know it’s OK to feel the way you do, just know that you are not alone and we are going to get through this!
“A friend reminded me today, you are so powerful and you can do anything you put your mind to. We can do anything we put our mind to. Let’s remember to live in gratitude for another day to rise. Sending you love and light.”
After securing a podium finish in the opening race of the season in Bahrain, Hamilton finished 10th in Jeddah last weekend.
Hamilton will make his way to Australia prior to the Grand Prix in Melbourne, a circuit where he is a three-time winner.