“She appears fine on the outside, but internally, her mind is constantly racing.” Anxiety often wears a quiet mask—showing up as calmness in public while hiding cycles of overthinking, muscle tension, restlessness, and emotional fatigue. It can be driven by unrealistic self-expectations, fear of judgment, or the overwhelming need to control uncertain outcomes. Despite appearing ‘functional, ’ many individuals silently battle with intrusive thoughts, sleep disturbances, and physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath. Understanding that anxiety isn’t always visible is crucial. Offering support starts with empathy, not assumptions. Corrective steps include developing healthy coping mechanisms such as structured routines, deep breathing or mindfulness practices, and rational self-talk using REBT techniques to challenge anxious thoughts. Seeking professional support from a psychiatrist or therapist, maintaining consistent sleep and nutrition, and gradually facing feared situations rather than avoiding them can significantly improve mental well-being. Let’s create a culture where it’s safe to say, “I’m not okay, ” and where proactive care is encouraged—before the struggle becomes invisible.