When someone asks how you're doing and you're feeling awful, it can be challenging to know how to respond honestly while also considering social norms and the context of the conversation. Here are some options for how to handle this situation:
Be Honest (to a Certain Degree): You can be honest without going into all the details. For example, you might say, "I'm not feeling great today, but I'll be okay." This response acknowledges your feelings without burdening the other person with too much information.
Deflect and Distract: If you don't feel comfortable sharing your emotions at the moment, you can deflect the question and redirect the conversation. For instance, you can respond with, "I've been dealing with some stuff, but let's talk about something fun. Have you seen any good movies lately?"
Neutral Response: You can give a neutral response like, "I'm hanging in there," or "I'm taking it one day at a time." These responses don't disclose much but still convey that you might be going through a tough time.
Express Gratitude: Even if you're not feeling well, you can acknowledge the concern and express gratitude for their inquiry. For example, "Thank you for asking, it means a lot. I'm just trying to get through the day."
Use Humor: Humor can be a coping mechanism, so if you're comfortable with it, you can use a lighthearted response like, "Oh, you know, living the dream (sarcastically)."
Share Selectively: If you feel close to the person and trust them, you might choose to share a bit more about what you're going through. Use your judgment based on the level of comfort and trust in your relationship.
Remember that you don't have to disclose your feelings if you're not comfortable doing so. It's okay to set boundaries and decide how much you want to share with others. At the same time, if you find that you consistently feel awful and it's impacting your well-being, consider reaching out to someone you trust or a mental health professional for support and guidance. Don't hesitate to seek help when needed.