Mental Health and Wellness: A Sobering Reminder for Malta
The tragic story of Matthew Livelsberger, a veteran who detonated a Cybertruck outside the Trump Las Vegas Hotel, underscores the urgent need for mental health awareness and support. Livelsberger’s struggles highlight the devastating consequences of untreated mental health issues, a challenge faced globally, including in Malta. While Malta’s Mediterranean lifestyle and vibrant food scene promote physical well-being, true health requires addressing mental and emotional wellness as well. The island’s emphasis on fresh, nutritious food, rich in omega-3 fats and whole grains, can positively impact mental health, but stigma and reluctance to seek help remain barriers. Malta’s community-oriented culture, centered around shared meals and connection, offers a foundation for fostering mental wellness. Mindfulness practices, outdoor activities, and nutrient-rich dining experiences can play a transformative role in supporting mental health. Restaurants across Malta increasingly embrace “food as medicine,” offering dishes that promote brain health, while initiatives like the Richmond Foundation provide vital counseling services. Livelsberger’s story is a
Mental Health Struggles: A Critical Reminder for Self-Care and Healthy Living
The tragic story of Matthew Livelsberger, a Green Beret who detonated a Cybertruck outside the Trump Las Vegas Hotel on New Year’s Day, brings to light the urgent importance of mental health awareness. Livelsberger, 37, had been battling a mental health crisis in the weeks leading up to the explosion. According to a report, he fatally shot himself inside his Tesla before it exploded, injuring six people. Investigators found messages on his phone indicating he felt “caught up in some craziness,” while emphasizing he didn’t want to harm others. “I served my country for my entire adult life and I got caught up in some craziness and have outrun my headlights,” he wrote.
For those living in Malta, a country increasingly focused on health and wellness, this story is a sobering reminder of the need to prioritize mental health alongside physical health. While Malta’s vibrant food scene and Mediterranean lifestyle promote longevity and well-being, true health requires addressing all facets of human wellness—mental, emotional, and physical.
Livelsberger’s former partner, Alicia Arritt, an Army nurse, revealed that she often encouraged him to seek professional help. “I always encouraged him to talk to somebody. I’ve lost a lot of friends in the military over the years, and I didn’t want that to happen to him, too,” she said. Her words highlight a universal truth: seeking support for mental health struggles is not a sign of weakness, but a necessary step toward healing. Malta’s community-oriented culture and emphasis on fresh, nutritious food can play a role in fostering better mental health outcomes. Studies have shown that diets rich in whole grains, fresh vegetables, and omega-3 fats—staples of Maltese cuisine—can positively impact mood and cognitive function.
The Army confirmed that Livelsberger had access to programs providing physical, cognitive, and medical care to soldiers. However, experts point out that many veterans hesitate to seek help, fearing it could affect their deployment status. Clinical psychologist Chris Frueh noted that this reluctance is common: “If a soldier goes and says, ‘I’m suffering, I’m hurting,’ they run the risk of being pulled off deployment or deployable status, and nobody wants that.”
This stigma surrounding mental health is not unique to veterans—it’s a challenge faced globally, including in Malta. While the island is celebrated for its close-knit communities and active lifestyle, mental health awareness still has room to grow. Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as yoga or meditation, and indulging in healthy, community-based dining experiences can help alleviate stress and support mental wellness. Restaurants across Malta are increasingly embracing the ethos of “food as medicine,” offering dishes packed with superfoods like salmon, walnuts, and spinach, which are scientifically proven to support brain health.
Livelsberger’s tragic story is also a reminder to look out for those around us. Whether it’s a friend struggling in silence or a colleague showing signs of burnout, compassion and connection can make all the difference. Malta’s social culture, centered around sharing meals and conversations, is an ideal foundation for fostering these connections. A simple dinner at a local restaurant, from Valletta to Gozo, can create moments of connection that help someone feel seen and supported.
As Malta continues to thrive as a hub for wellness tourism, the importance of a balanced lifestyle cannot be overstated. Beyond indulging in nutrient-rich Mediterranean cuisine, it’s vital to also cultivate mental and emotional health through activities like exploring Malta’s natural beauty, enjoying outdoor dining experiences, and practicing gratitude.
Mental health struggles are more common than many realize, and Livelsberger’s story sheds light on the devastating consequences of untreated issues. For those living in Malta or visiting, consider embracing a holistic approach to health. Pair nourishing meals with physical activity, spend time outdoors, and don’t hesitate to seek support when needed. The Maltese lifestyle has all the ingredients for a long and happy life, as long as mental health remains part of the conversation.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, reach out to a trusted professional or community support system. Globally, resources like Befrienders Worldwide (www.befrienders.org) can connect individuals with helplines near them. In Malta, organizations such as Richmond Foundation offer counseling and support services for those in need. Remember, prioritizing mental health is not only essential but can be life-changing—and life-saving.
By fostering a culture of care and connection, Malta’s food and wellness scene can be more than just indulgent—it can be transformative. Let’s use moments like these to remind ourselves to nourish both the body and the mind, and to create a world where no one feels alone in their struggles.