Anxiety is a common mental health condition, with one in four people in the UK experiencing a mental health problem each year. And an expert said you should pay attention to two words
Samantha Bartlett Assistant Editor, Social News and Chloe Dobinson
12:08, 26 Sep 2025
An anxiety specialist has shared a recommendation to support those grappling with the condition(Image: Getty Images)
Anxiety is a widespread health issue, with the mental health charity Mind disclosing that one in five people will experience some type of mental health problem annually in England. Professional intervention remains the most effective approach if you’re battling anxiety.
Your GP might suggest treatments such as talking therapies or medication. Nevertheless, alongside medical guidance, an anxiety specialist has shared her own recommendation to support those grappling with the condition. Lisa Houghton, a self-help writer and coach committed to assisting people in conquering anxiety, regularly posts advice on anxiety for her Instagram followers.
And in one informative post, she shared a two-word expression that people should be aware of when it comes to anxiety. In an Instagram reel, Houghton employed overlay text on a video featuring a coffee mug to deliver an important message.
The text stated: “I’m fine, but what I really mean is… I’m not doing great but I don’t want to be a burden.
“I don’t know how to put it into words. I’m afraid of being judged or pushed away.
“I don’t think anyone would really get it. I’ve been hiding how I feel for so long, it’s just what I do now.”
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The words ‘I’m fine’ are actually quite deceptive, as they could be hiding much deeper issues.
Lisa’s post concluded with: “I feel guilty for struggling like I shouldn’t feel this way. I feel safer keeping it to myself and hoping it’ll pass.”
In her caption, Lisa wrote: “‘I’m fine’, two words that more often than not hide a person’s inner struggle. We suppress our pain and emotions, fearing judgement, rejection, or simply being at a loss for words.
“We fear we’re alone in this, but I assure you, we’re not. That’s the unfortunate reality. More people are silently suffering than we realise.”
Lisa admitted to her followers that she “spent years” telling people she was fine when she wasn’t – and even now, she occasionally does the same.
The heartfelt post struck a chord with fans(Image: MementoJpeg via Getty Images)
She finished by saying: “Healing begins when we allow ourselves to be seen, vulnerable and honest even in our messiest moments. And please remember, you don’t have to bear it all alone.”
The post struck a chord with fans. One person commented: “So true! ‘I’m fine’ is often a mask for emotions we struggle to express.”
Another agreed: “‘I’M FINE!’ We’ve all been there! We don’t always voice our true feelings, often to protect others rather than ourselves! A heartfelt post.”
Whilst a third added: “So spot on, it’s just something that has become second nature. It’s really that no one wants to hear what’s ‘really’ going on or most do not care anyways. Find the ones that will help you deal with these emotions and keep safe.”
If you or someone you know is battling anxiety, seeking advice from a medical professional can be a huge help.