Have you ever told a white lie to be kind, to protect the feelings of others, or maybe to simply avoid stigma? You're not alone.

For some living with a chronic condition, telling a white lie can be a way to save one's strength. Sometimes it's easier not to share your unvarnished truth, especially when it doesn't hurt anyone else.

Have you ever found yourself saying any of the following?

1. "No, no. I can do it myself."
2. "I'm not scared/nervous/anxious/unsure."
3. "I'm fine. Really."
4. "Don't worry. I'm used to this."
5. "No, I'm not in much pain."

Here are some conversations from the community about this topic:

“IBS—one of those hidden illnesses, like depression, not an obvious, in-your-face illness. Something one can hide well because living with this… has forced one to put on this brave and invisible outer appearance of great, good, happy.”

“I don’t know how I can get a doctor to hear what I’m saying and believe me.”

“Not all GP's are good, and it makes you wonder how many more people are out there going through the same thing just getting fobbed off by their doctors. We can't stand for this anymore, and something should be done."

Why do you choose a white lie over sharing your true feelings?
What do you wish you could say instead?