Re: “Is it normal to wear a mask because it is a comfort item for you? My mom thinks there is something wrong with me.”

Let’s just get this out-of-the-way: There is nothing “wrong” with you!

There are several valid reasons to wear a mask at any given time. In my own case, some people may find it strange to see me wearing my mask outside during the spring and summer. If they knew me, they would know that I discovered the KN95 ito be a really effective way to control my allergy symptoms— something I would not have even thought of pre-pandemic. This is a case where the behavior is what’s called “adaptive“. Adaptive behaviors are the ways we interact with our environment that ease anxiety without interfering with our ability to function. Maladaptive behaviors are ones we do for the same reasons as adaptive behaviors, but are more harmful to us than helpful (often not helpful at all). Maladaptive behaviors interfere with our ability to function in society. In some cases, maladaptive behavior can affect the people around us negatively.

I think what you may be asking is whether wearing a mask, in YOUR case, is a maladaptive behavior. That is up to you to decide. In my example, wearing a mask is adaptive because:

A. It works. The mask blocks allergens, reducing my symptoms. My eyes still puff up. 

B. It doesn’t stop me from doing the things I’d normally do. In fact, it helps me more comfortably go outside during allergy season, when I would sometimes stay in to avoid all the sneezing.

C. It doesn’t affect anyone else— easing my own allergies doesn’t cause allergic reactions in the people around me. It’s my face, my lungs, etc.

The Following are some prompts that may help you self-evaluate:

You described your mask as being a comfort item for you. Does it work? Do the times where you would where a mask vs the times you wouldn’t make sense to you (i.e. wearing one when you’re in the grocery store vs wearing one when you’re home alone)? Is wearing a mask causing you any discomfort or distress? Is it affecting the safety or comfort of people around you?

Self-evaluation can apply to almost everything in life. It gives us a better understanding of ourselves. It helps us discover why we do the things we do, and gives us ways to improve our quality of life. I hope you find this helpful— Stay safe out there, fam.

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