Norris prides itself on the fact that mental health honesty helps others

The McLaren youngster, who has built a large fan base since arriving in Formula 1 in early 2019, has made no secret of the fact that he at times struggled with the pressure that came with being a Grand Prix driver.

In particular, he said the stress in his early races, where he felt that if he did not perform well, he risked losing his seat, was very difficult to manage at the time.

But after seeking help with the problems he faced, Norris has now put himself in a much better place – and has become a beacon for those who face problems in their own lives.

Norris believes that being honest about what he’s been through has been of great benefit to both himself and others.

“I’m really excited to see more people talk about it and realize that it is only for their benefit and others,” he said.

“I don’t think this is negative. I think it will only help you get better and it will certainly help you if you have a large following or a lot of people are watching you if you say so. You will only help people who also have problems. “

Lando Norris, McLaren MCL35M

Photo by: Jerry Andre / Motorsport Images

Norris says he has had direct feedback from his fans on the positive aspects of his attitude.

“I am very happy and proud to be part of this group of people who have accepted it and are happy and confident to speak about it,” he said.

“One of the biggest things that made me believe it was good to talk about is my fans, my followers, and especially when I pointed it out the first few times.

“Before I talked about it publicly, some of them said how much it helps them and the impact I can have on them. Then, over time, I realize that the impact I can have on hundreds or thousands of people is enormous.

“When I get messages to help them feel much better, or their friends or family, it’s a pretty amazing thing.

“The more I’ve seen that, the more I became aware of the influence I can have and the place I have with Formula 1 in my life, with the fans I have and the fan base I have the influence is greater.

“So I thought it would be better to speak about it publicly and around the world in order to help as many people as possible.”