I am not very good at expressing myself with words. I could be over the moon about something or someone and still give a meh reply.

I could be running out of breath with stress and anxiety and still give the brightest smile, because how do I tell you in clear and understanding English when my words are scrambled.

So what do I do? I avoid the question or give a vague short reply to avoid being misunderstood.

Now, that’s not a defense mechanism. It’s my brain failing me when I need it most.