Face Masks and Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety UK supports the Government guidelines (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own) and is particularly pleased to note that provision has been made for people for whom the wearing of masks may cause distress.

We also urge members of the public to be tolerant where they see people not wearing masks. For many people with hidden disabilities and mental health issues, masks may be something that they very much struggle with.

If you are worried that wearing a mask will exacerbate your anxiety:

• Try wearing a mask at home to start with to acclimatise to the feeling. If it is too uncomfortable the Government has made it very clear that anyone managing physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability, or anyone for which wearing or removing a face covering will cause severe distress are exempt from having to wear them in public. Please do not feel you must wear one if you fit into these categories.
• Obviously ensure you maintain other measures such as social distancing and regularly washing and sanitising hands
• If anyone challenges you, simply say: “I’m in a health category that the Government has advised do not need to wear masks. Please rest assured I am taking every other precaution including minimising my contact with others, practising social distancing and regularly washing and sanitising my hands.”