To ask if Anxiety is an acceptable excuse for not wearing a mask?

[balihai550]

Just this...I had a mild panic attack in M&S today because for some reason masks make me feel closed in and like I can't breathe.

So I took it off and then had to explain to three people why I couldn't wear it. Anxiety in their view wasn't a good enough reason.

I often try to get online shops but atm all the ocado, Sainsbury's and Waitrose slots in my area are gone, so have to venture out.

Is not wearing a mask because of Anxiety and panic attacks unreasonable?

Hmm yeh you just say you’re exempt no need to “explain” why

I don’t think it’s reasonable

@Givemeabreak88

Hmm yeh you just say you’re exempt no need to “explain” why

Feels like everyone takes it upon themselves to decide. Would or should a doctor issue a letter explaining it? Feels like that would help but my doctor won't. Very unhelpful

YABU

I suffer terribly from anxiety and also find the Mark suffocating. My breathing becomes very shallow and I get flustered and hot. However, I wear it to protect others. I know I can get through a shop with it on because I've done so many times and I will get through a shop many times going forward.

If it was so bad that I couldn't wear the mask, I would leave the shop and make other arrangements rather than put people at risk tbh.

*the mask... not the Mark.

If you don’t like a face mask, try a ventilator - if you’re lucky enough to get one.
YABU. Why should shop workers be exposed to the virus from people who don’t like wearing masks?

You'll feel a damn sight more anxious under an oxygen mask.

As I understand it, doctors have work enough without issuing a letter exempting people from wearing masks.

Have you thought about seeking some therapy that enables you to cope with a mask? I'm saying that because there doesn't seem from your post to be a particular reason or trauma why you're having difficulties wearing a mask.

"excuse" or reason?

Can you practice desensitising yourself to it?

@BeardieWeirdie

If you don’t like a face mask, try a ventilator - if you’re lucky enough to get one. YABU. Why should shop workers be exposed to the virus from people who don’t like wearing masks?

THIS.

No

Can't you get a tesco or Asda slot either?
I think you should wear a mask or not go shopping. M and s is hardly essentials .

Considering NHS staff wear them for the entire shift ......you will be fine..just have a list and get in and out quickly. Its not worth the hassle you will get by not wearing one.

Op, the legislation specifically allows you not to wear a mask for the reasons described.

@thenewschmoo

Is it Anxiety with a capital letter? You know, VIP trumps-all Anxiety?

Ni idea really. They're frigging pointless outside à medical setting anyway. But they reassure people that they're safer, so hey ho.

I sympathise. I also suffer from anxiety that leaves me feeling breathless/suffocated and a mask is uncomfortable when I have that feeling.

But I'm sorry, this doesn't trump other people's right to stay safe. You need to try to manage the anxiety or find another way to get your shopping.

Is not wearing a mask because of Anxiety and panic attacks unreasonable?

Yes, it's unreasonable imo.

What do you think surgeons with anxiety do?

Can you try to wean yourself on the mask. Wear it for a minute at home. Then 5 then 10 and so on until you can manage an hour for a shop?

I can't quite put my finger on why I feel an air of goadiness

Indeed !

Nobody likes wearing the damned things. Get a plastic guard to wear underneath them if you don't like them touching your face.

I find them so tough to breath in and insanely claustrophobic. I have to talk myself through the route around the shop and get around fast. But I will do what I need to do, I looked into visors but they seem to not do anything so it didn't feel right