For those who struggle with anxiety, the wearing of protective face masks is a real challenge. It’s hot, harder to breathe, and feels claustrophobic.  It also acts as a constant reminder of the ever-present COVID-19 and the uncertainty that lies ahead. It’s hard to communicate, you can’t see people’s expressions, and can feel very isolated.

This is the new normal and we have to adapt to it.  It is an added stress to living with the pandemic, but it is an essential safety precaution.

Protective Face Masks

The area of the face that is covered by the mask is very sensitive to heat, so an increase in temperature around the face then starts to affect the temperature in the rest of the body.  Add to that the physiological factors of anxiety with heart-beat beginning to raise, rapid breathing, and the feelings of claustrophobia and it becomes a challenging situation emotionally.

For many people, any initial discomfort soon diminishes as they adapt to wearing a mask, but for those with anxiety, this is something that requires management.

How hypnotherapy can help

If you are struggling, do get in touch.  The hypnotherapy that I offer, can help you to create your own calm and is an empowering way to alleviate the symptoms of fear, anxiety, and claustrophobia.

Learn to shift your thoughts in order to develop resilience during these challenging times. I can teach you practical strategies to help you cope with mask-wearing and distance you from the fear.