When Staying Composed Harms Your Health

Saying “I’m fine” when you’re anything but can have serious consequences

Illustration: Thoka Maer

“So how are you feeling?” the doctor, who I was seeing for the second time in two weeks, asked as she prepped the shot that would hopefully bolster my diminishing vitamin levels. “I’m fine; how are you?” I asked, replying with the immediate, automated bounce of an email…