Brentford Captain Discusses Sleep Medication
Brentford captain Christian Norgaard has opened up about his journey with sleep medication, revealing his struggle with reliance on sleeping pills to manage anxiety and performance pressure. The issue first arose during his time at Brondby, where he began using medication before games.
Origins of the Challenge
In a reflective discussion, Norgaard recounted how his mind began racing before critical matches, leading him to believe that poor sleep would adversely affect his performance. "I thought, 'What if I don’t play well because I didn’t sleep?' This pattern of thinking became more prevalent over time, making it essential to find ways to disrupt that cycle," he recalled.
Support from Experts
Fortunately, Norgaard found help in Brentford’s sleep coach, Anna West, who supported him in reducing his dependence on medication. Expressing gratitude, he noted the importance of their work together in overcoming these challenges. His struggle highlights the broad issue of sleep health among professionals in high-stakes sports.
Drawing Attention to an Important Issue
The conversation around Norgaard's experiences comes at a time when awareness of sleep-related struggles in sports is growing. Former footballer Dele Alli has also shared his own challenges with sleeping pills, emphasizing the need for a more open dialogue on this often-overlooked problem. Norgaard hopes for increased support systems for athletes facing similar issues, advocating for awareness and professional guidance.
Shifting to Healthier Habits
After overcoming reliance on medication, Norgaard has developed a routine that fosters better sleep without the need for pills. Simple actions, such as using his own pillow when traveling and establishing relaxation practices, have made a significant difference in his well-being. "I’m relieved to have moved on from that phase, understanding the struggles many face if they become reliant on these substances," he stated.
