Robbie Savage Advocates Mental Health Awareness Through Football

“People say I’m a pantomime villain and that I should be able to take the abuse,” says Robbie Savage. “But it does affect me, especially when I’m away from my family, living on my own, and isolated.”

The manager of Forest Green Rovers, often a polarizing figure in football, is speaking out about mental health and the “vile abuse” he receives from some opposition fans.

A pilot scheme by the NHS in Gloucestershire allows local GPs to prescribe tickets to Forest Green home games for patients suffering from depression.

Savage, who captained four Premier League clubs after being released by Manchester United, has been open about his struggles with mental health, including anxiety and panic attacks, as well as the emotional toll from the death of his father.

Since taking on the full-time managerial role at Forest Green in July, the 51-year-old former Wales midfielder spends much of the week away from his family home near Manchester, where his wife Sarah and youngest son Freddie still reside.

“There are times I go back to my apartment and I’m isolated, I’m on my own, and it can be hard,” Savage explains. “As a player, you can go out with your teammates. As a manager, you can’t go out with your players, so it’s quite a lonely place, especially when you’re receiving abuse.”

Earlier this month, Savage reported experiencing abuse that “crossed the line” during an away game at Carlisle United. The Cumbrian club has stated they will share video, audio, and CCTV footage with the Football Association.

“One of the things I love most about football is the humour, the banter, the camaraderie. We have that at this football club and I share it with away fans,” Savage said. “But there is a line. That line was crossed [against Carlisle] and that’s not acceptable. We’re not talking about the everyday abuse that football fans give.”

“Then there’s a social media pile-on. All the negative energy surrounding me from others does affect me at times. How do I deal with it? It’s hard, but the most important thing for me is speaking to people and being around others at the training ground.”

Savage believes it is crucial to address mental health issues and fully supports his club’s initiative to provide free tickets to patients with mild to moderate depression. “People do struggle mentally in life,” he adds. “This initiative is not just about watching football; it’s about the experience itself because when you come to a match, you meet new people, make friends, and engage with family.”

'Modern life cuts us off from people'

According to NHS figures, over eight million adults in England are currently taking antidepressants. The 'Football on Prescription' scheme, initiated by the Cotswolds-based club, was developed in collaboration with Labour MP for Stroud, Dr. Simon Opher.

Instead of medication, patients are prescribed match tickets, aiming to foster a sense of belonging that can positively impact mental health.

“Football brings people together like nothing else,” says Dale Vince, the green energy entrepreneur who owns Forest Green Rovers. “Modern life cuts us off from two things: nature and people. It’s easy to feel isolated and lonely.”

“I’ve had periods in my life where I felt down and excluded. It’s easy to spiral downwards without contact with others. One of the best aspects of running a football club is the sense of community it fosters. At this level, it’s about community, not profits.”

Offering match tickets to patients is a form of social prescribing that emerged from discussions between Vince and Dr. Opher. “Social prescribing is about helping people recover without relying solely on medication—through art classes, exercise, gardening, and more,” explains Dr. Opher. “I’m not suggesting antidepressants aren’t effective; for some, they are essential, but I believe we overuse them because alternatives are limited.”

“Let’s try something different. In this case, coming to a football ground and feeling part of a club.” Critics, however, argue that while social prescribing may provide short-term benefits, there is inconsistent evidence regarding its long-term effectiveness in enhancing social support or reducing GP visits.

“We try to follow up with people who come here to see if they want a repeat prescription,” adds Vince, noting that this scheme is the first of its kind in the UK—possibly even worldwide. Despite being launched only a couple of months ago, 'Football on Prescription' has already gained popularity.

'Savage is a breath of fresh air'

On a Saturday lunchtime, Savage radiates energy as he enters a hospitality box at Forest Green’s stadium, which boasts stunning views of the Gloucestershire countryside. Soon, he will be in the home dugout overseeing a crucial match against Boreham Wood, yet he takes the time to chat and take a photo with Sally, who has been prescribed a match ticket by her local GP.

Sally, 55, suffered a serious injury when she was hit by a car at the age of 11 and has faced challenges with her mental health. “Wait here, Sally, I’ll be back in two minutes,” Savage says before returning with a green and black scarf for her.

“Robbie is so warm and welcoming,” she remarks after he leaves the room.

Forest Green goes on to defeat Boreham Wood 2-1, delighting the 1,825-strong crowd and moving them just two points behind league leaders Rochdale. Savage’s animated presence on the sidelines is as entertaining as the match itself, as he spends the game in his technical area, passionately encouraging his players.

“He is a breath of fresh air,” says Niels, another recipient of a match ticket through social prescribing. “Seeing his passion on the touchline... he is Mr. Motivator.”

Would Niels recommend 'Football on Prescription'? “This is my third Forest Green game and second through social prescribing. Coming here lifts your spirits. It’s like a little reset. Mental health is complex, but at least Forest Green is trying to do something.”

Will Sally return for another game? “I can’t wait to come back. It’s a chance to get out in the fresh air and meet new people. It’s better than any medicine I have ever taken.”

Forest Green Rovers will face League One Luton Town in the first round of the FA Cup on Friday (19:30 GMT kick-off).

Support and information for anyone struggling with their mental health can be found through various organizations.

Robbie Savage Advocates Mental Health Awareness Through Football

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