How do you deal with the psychological effect of mask-wearing?

I have honestly feared the day they mandated masks since the pandemic began. I personally think that people are so enthusiastic about masks, because it is such a visually extreme measure that people think it must be hugely effective. It provides some protection, but maybe not as much as people think.

Well, today, the NSW Government mandated mask-wearing in certain indoor settings, despite only seven cases, four of which came from the same household. It kicks in from midnight tonight, but they won't start enforcing it until Monday.

• Shopping centres.
• Public transport.
• Certain indoor entertainment and hospitality venues.

I have worn a mask inside hospital, and it is a little uncomfortable, but not as bad as I thought. However, having to wear a mask every single time you find yourself in one of these situations is a bit upsetting for me, because of my self-image and also the social barrier it puts up.

I am ugly enough as it is, and now the government is making me cover up my face by law. Everyone else is going to be wearing a mask too, so you can't see people's facial expressions. You can't really hear people properly when they talk. It is also going to make it harder for you to be heard as well.

I feel like if you don't already have someone you love, and friends in your life, you are doomed until the pandemic is over. There is no way you can find someone when they can't see half your face. Interacting with people online is not the same, and MOST people don't have to worry about that. At least I've got a "learning experience".

I'll be honest, I don't know how often I am going to be subject to this rule anyway. My shopping centre is outdoors, and they have a little indoor area with the Woolworths, so I don't know if that counts as a "shopping centre". I don't even own a mask, so I hope they are at least going to supply them, because they are pretty expensive.

Regardless, it is just a huge kick in the guts, and it makes me feel EVEN more alone. I didn't know that was possible, but here we are.