Masks can be a struggle for trauma survivors. Here are some breathing exercises to help.

A Shepparton psychologist is encouraging local trauma survivors to practise breathing exercises, as face masks present a major trigger for many.Pure Empowerment clinical director Rachael Willis said face coverings could also impact on people's ability to breathe slowly and deeply, in turn heightening anxiety."It may trigger a reminder or memory from the past where people were trapped or had issues breathing,” she said."For some people, wearing something over their mouths can evoke feelings of panic and suffocation."This can also impact people with medical-related issues such as asthma, or people with body trauma.”

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