How Food Impacts Wellness: Lessons on Burnout in Malta
Dr. Amos Ogunkoya, a GP and TV medical expert, warns of a growing wellbeing crisis linked to burnout, loneliness, and disconnection, emphasizing the role of food in mental health. Speaking on the *Well Enough* podcast, he highlighted the emotional toll of modern life and the hidden nature of stress and anxiety. In Malta, the Mediterranean diet offers a natural way to support both physical and mental health, with its focus on fresh produce, whole grains, and lean proteins. The discussion also addressed the impact of social media and screen time on mental wellbeing, suggesting that unplugging and engaging in mindful dining experiences—such as enjoying local dishes or sharing meals with loved ones—can counteract overstimulation and foster connection. Loneliness, another critical issue raised, underscores the importance of community ties and shared meals in promoting emotional resilience. By embracing the principles of the Mediterranean lifestyle and Malta’s rich culinary traditions, residents and visitors alike can take meaningful steps toward improved wellbeing.
Are We Facing a Wellbeing Crisis? Lessons from Dr. Amos Ogunkoya on Burnout, Wellness, and the Role of Food in Mental Health
In an episode of the Well Enough podcast, GP and TV medical expert Dr. Amos Ogunkoya sounded the alarm on the growing cycle of burnout, loneliness, and disconnection that has gripped many people today. While the discussion centered on the UK, the insights shared are increasingly relevant worldwide—including here in Malta, where the fast-paced modern lifestyle, coupled with the pressures of social media, work, and even our food habits, can take a toll on both mental and physical health.
Dr. Ogunkoya painted a stark picture of the challenges faced by his patients. Stress and anxiety, he explained, are often hidden beneath the surface, even by those who appear to be thriving. "Burnout," he said, "is now an official term used by medical professionals. It’s a state of emotional exhaustion where life’s challenges outpace our ability to cope with them." The question he and Well Enough host Emilie Lavinia posed was: why do so many of us fail to notice burnout until it’s too late?
Finding "Soul Food" for the Mind and Body
One of the most striking moments in the discussion came when Dr. Ogunkoya recalled meeting a patient at a GP practice for the homeless. The man described his condition as “deep soul pain”—a phrase that resonated deeply with the doctor. "There’s a lot of people walking around with that state," Dr. Ogunkoya said, "waiting for someone to ask them how they’re really doing."
It’s a poignant reminder for us in Malta to look beyond the surface, not just in our personal lives but also in how we care for ourselves. Could part of the answer lie in returning to simple, nourishing habits? For example, the Mediterranean diet—a cornerstone of Maltese cuisine—is often cited as one of the healthiest in the world. Rich in fresh produce, whole grains, olive oil, and lean proteins, it supports both physical wellbeing and mental health, offering a way to combat stress and inflammation naturally.
A mindful approach to food might be one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to address burnout. Whether it’s sitting down for a colorful Mediterranean salad in Valletta or enjoying a hearty vegetable soup by the sea in Marsaxlokk, the act of eating well can be therapeutic—a small but meaningful intervention in the chaos of modern life.
The Impact of Social Media and Screen Time
Dr. Ogunkoya and fellow guest Zoe Kalar, founder and CEO of WeAre8, also tackled the stresses of modern technology. Social media platforms, they argued, often amplify feelings of inadequacy and competition, drawing users into a toxic cycle of comparison and anxiety. Kalar, who created a platform to block hateful content and give back to the community, highlighted how algorithms are designed to keep us scrolling—not to enhance our wellbeing.
For many of us in Malta, where the vibrant café culture and outdoor lifestyle are part of everyday life, the conversation raises an important question: could we benefit from unplugging and reconnecting with our surroundings? Imagine leaving your smartphone behind for an evening and immersing yourself in the sensory pleasures of dining—whether it’s savoring freshly grilled fish at a local eatery, exploring innovative plant-based dishes in Sliema, or enjoying a glass of local wine while overlooking the Blue Lagoon. These moments of mindful engagement can help counteract the overstimulation of our digital lives.
Loneliness: The Hidden Health Crisis
Another critical point raised in the podcast was the long-term health implications of loneliness. Dr. Ogunkoya noted that loneliness has been linked to chronic diseases and even premature death. In Malta, where community and family ties are traditionally strong, we have an opportunity to leverage these connections as a buffer against isolation.
One way to foster connection is through food. Hosting a family dinner, joining a cooking class, or even meeting friends for a meal at a bustling restaurant can provide opportunities to bond and share. Food has always been more than sustenance—it’s a way to bring people together, and in doing so, it can help address the emotional void that loneliness creates.
How Food and Wellness Go Hand in Hand
The discussion on Well Enough reminds us that wellness isn’t just about yoga or self-care routines—it’s about the choices we make every day, including what we put on our plates. In Malta, we are fortunate to have access to an abundance of fresh, seasonal ingredients that not only taste amazing but also nourish our bodies and minds.
For those looking to take a smarter approach to feeling good, consider embracing the principles of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Visit your local farmer’s market for fresh vegetables and herbs, experiment with dishes like baked sea bream with lemon and capers, or even explore the growing trend of health-focused restaurants in Malta offering vegan, gluten-free, and nutrient-packed options.
Final Thoughts
As Dr. Ogunkoya and Kalar pointed out, the pressures of modern life—from work stress to social media—can feel overwhelming. But as we’ve seen, there are tangible steps we can take to protect our wellbeing. Whether it’s through mindful eating, reducing screen time, or reconnecting with loved ones over a hearty meal, small changes can make a big difference.
In Malta, we have the unique advantage of a culture that celebrates food, community, and the beauty of the natural world. By leaning into these traditions, we can create a lifestyle that not only supports our physical health but also nurtures our mental and emotional resilience.
So why not take a moment today to pause, savor a nourishing meal, and share it with someone you care about? After all, wellbeing begins with the little things—and there’s no better place than Malta to rediscover their power.