Close friends and family Let them know how you’re feeling using a more detailed response, especially if they know about any current events in your life. Examples: “I’m feeling a little down today, actually. I haven’t been getting enough sleep lately and I think I need a vacation. Thanks for checking in with me. How are you doing?” “I’m feeling really excited today. I got that promotion I was telling you about and I start in two weeks! Also, my sister had a baby! Thanks for asking.” Acquaintances It’s typical to give short, honest answers to people you don’t know very well (like friends of friends, bosses, coworkers, and clients), but feel free to provide more detail if you have some rapport and/or want to get to know them better. Examples: “I’m feeling a bit tired, what with a new puppy at home, but good for the most part! And how are you?” “I’m feeling great today—really excited to get this project up and running! How are you doing?” People you don’t know While it’s acceptable to give a brief answer to people you don’t know at all, feel free to elaborate if there’s a shared experience you’re having or if you are one of those people who has “never met a stranger.” Examples: “I’m great—lucked out with getting the last ticket and am excited to hear them play ‘Cantaloupe Island’!” “I’m feeling a little drained from a long day of hiking, but nothing a little shot of espresso can’t fix! Could I have a double, actually?” Doctors and other health professionals When speaking to a doctor, it’s important that you be extremely honest. Your mood can be a reflection of your overall health and they need to know about any significant shifts. Examples: “I’m not feeling well at all. I’ve been foggy headed and having migraines for the past two weeks. I’m also not eating as well as I should be.” “I’m feeling decent, but I’ve been experiencing a lot of highs and lows with anxiety and depression lately and some nights I just don’t sleep very well.”