Most Americans have never had to wear a mask for their health before–even when doing life’s basics like shopping for groceries or gas.
I can’t lie–they’re a pain! I totally get it! We have pandemic fatigue–we are done with this virus–however comma it ain’t done with us sport fans–it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure this out but it’s so easy to be in denial if it hasn’t directly affected us.
In South-East Asia the use of such masks has been more common in daily life, even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. From the very beginning, China enforced mask wearing in many places, regardless of showing symptoms. The same is true for South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, which have all managed to more successfully slow the spread of COVID-19 compared to the rest of the world.
Needless to say, we’re all hopeful that this pandemic disappears, but for now, we really depend on the trust and kindness of others to protect our well being. And that’s part of this mask wearing right now and being an American.
What are some reasons for not masking?
Infringement of rights
People naturally rebel when they’re told what to do, even if the measures could protect them. Unlike China–we live in a democracy and value our freedoms. In fact, some may become distressed or outraged when people are trying to encroach on their freedoms similar to the ban on smoking cigarettes in restaurants or schools (which is now law), however mask wearing is currently not.
Many of those with objections cite the mistaken belief the requirement is unconstitutional, and under their theory, one cannot be forced to wear a mask.
Makes one look weak
To some, wearing a mask means admitting a fear they may not have consciously confronted before, said David Abrams, a clinical psychologist and professor at New York University’s School of Global Public Health.
Many view the mask as a walking symbol of vulnerability that tells others you’re scared about contracting the virus. So to compensate for that fear, and as a show of strength, they may reject the masks entirely.
Spoiler Alert: this moment in history is scary and even though fear is natural, many of us dare not show it.
Interestingly enough, Abrams shares that we may owe that particular trait to our animal ancestors–where species disguise fear and don’t show it with other species to keep themselves safe. It’s an evolutionary trait that might explain our tendencies today, when our collective security is threatened.
Confusing Guidance and mixed messaging
Within three months, masks went from unnecessary for healthy people to recommended for anyone who goes out in public. The conflicting guidance–talk about whiplash!
But that guidance changed when researchers learned about the high probability of asymptomatic transmission, which the World Health Organization (WHO) recently disputed causing further confusion and have since retracted. Wearing a cloth mask isn’t foolproof, but if someone is infected and doesn’t know it, the mask prevents their breath from traveling far and potentially infecting others.
Some CDC guidelines have seemingly been watered down to more quickly open up the economy. And there have been mixed messages at the Federal level–seemingly placing mask wearing as a political statement.
Masks can be uncomfortable
In the presence of uncertainty, according to Abrams, people tend to seek out rituals that make them feel secure–and guess what–for many Americans, wearing masks in public isn’t one of them.
Once again, life comes down to fear or love otherwise known as compassion for our fellow human beings experiencing the same challenges. There are many types of masks to purchase or make to find more comfort.
Tip on stopping your glasses from fogging up: Wash your lenses with soap, rinse under warm water and gently dry with a towel or lens cloth–enjoy!
Benefits of wearing a mask:
You are protecting others in the event you are contagious but asymptomatic;
Make a fun fashion statement–choose an animal, sporting, or just match your outfit;
Less direct involuntary hand to mouth/nose contacts;
Increased awareness, which may improve adherence to physical distancing;
Can provide a feeling of empowerment; and
Can reduce social branding of mask wearing/face covering.
So, even as businesses or states increasingly require them, as Americans, let’s think of the mask guidance not as forced conformity, but as a necessary act of solidarity.
Covid Humor: Day 1 of quarantine: I’m going to take this as an opportunity to improve my health; Day 2 of quarantine: Due to personal reasons, I am eating a lasagna in my shower.
Progress, not perfection Warriors and let’s be gentle with ourselves along the way.