Tom Cleverley, a former Manchester United player, recently opened up about his struggles with anxiety during his playing career. The now 36-year-old, who currently manages Plymouth Argyle, revealed in an interview with his club’s media team that stress and anxiety had a significant impact on his mental health. Cleverley spoke candidly about the challenges he faced, shedding light on the difficulties he encountered both on and off the pitch.
Back in the 2013-14 season, Cleverley faced a barrage of criticism and abuse from the public, which took a toll on his mental well-being. He admitted to feeling overwhelmed by the unjustified scapegoating he experienced, especially as he believed he was approaching his peak performance level. The situation was further exacerbated when he was targeted in a petition to be removed from the England squad, adding to his already mounting stress. Additionally, a traumatic burglary at his home left him feeling suffocated and unable to find solace in his own space.
Despite these challenges, Cleverley continued to push through, eventually seeking help to cope with his anxiety. He acknowledged that his initial coping mechanisms were unhealthy, such as isolating himself in dark rooms and avoiding leaving the house. Through education on breathing exercises and maintaining healthy sleep patterns, Cleverley was able to better manage his anxiety and improve his overall well-being. He emphasized the importance of seeking support and not being afraid to talk to someone when facing mental health struggles, highlighting the need for open conversations in the football community.
The interview with Cleverley was part of Plymouth Argyle’s support for World Mental Health Day and Mind, a mental health charity. By sharing his story, Cleverley hopes to raise awareness about the prevalence of mental health issues in professional sports and encourage others to seek help when needed. His journey serves as a reminder that even elite athletes like himself are not immune to mental health challenges, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing mental well-being in all aspects of life.
