The answer to this question can vary depending on the individual and the context of the situation. In many cases, when people ask "How are you?" as a casual greeting, they are often being polite and may not necessarily expect or desire a detailed response about how you genuinely feel.
In everyday social interactions, "How are you?" has become a standard greeting or pleasantry, similar to saying "hello" or "hi." It's a way of acknowledging someone's presence and showing basic courtesy. In these situations, the person asking may not be seeking a deep or meaningful conversation about your well-being. Instead, they are engaging in a social convention to be friendly and respectful.
However, it's essential to recognize that not everyone follows this greeting as a mere formality. Some people genuinely care about the well-being of others and are interested in hearing how someone is doing. Their inquiry might be an invitation to share if there's something on your mind or if you genuinely want to talk about your emotions and experiences.
To determine whether someone is asking out of politeness or genuine concern, consider the context and the relationship you have with the person. If the person is a close friend, family member, or colleague who has shown genuine interest in your well-being in the past, there's a higher likelihood that they genuinely care about your answer. On the other hand, if it's a casual acquaintance or a passing interaction, they may be asking more out of politeness and may not expect an in-depth response.
In any case, if you feel like sharing how you truly feel with the person asking, it's perfectly acceptable to do so. But if you prefer to keep your response brief, that's also okay, as most people understand that this greeting is often a part of casual social interactions.