Things You Can Say When “Fine” Doesn’t Cut It
We all know that moment when someone asks, "How are you?" and the automatic response is, "I'm fine." But what if you're not fine? What if you're struggling with something and need to talk about it? It's okay to admit when you're not okay, and it's essential to have the right words to express how you're feeling.
In this blog, we're diving into those moments when "fine" just doesn't cut it. We're exploring the range of emotions that can come with not feeling okay and providing simple phrases to help you open up and start the conversation.
When you're feeling like things aren't quite right, it's important to acknowledge it.
Here are some examples of phrases you can use when you're not feeling "fine":
I'M NOT FINE
Things you can say when you're not fine:
"I'm having a tough time."
"I'm feeling sad today."
"I'm struggling right now."
"I'm feeling overwhelmed."
"I'm not myself lately."
“On the struggle bus.”
“I can’t stop thinking about _____.”
“Thanks for asking. _______ has been stressing me out lately.”
I WANT TO TALK
Things you can say when you want to talk about it:
"Can we chat for a bit? I could use a listening ear."
"I need to talk about what's been bothering me lately."
"I feel like I need to get some things off my chest."
"I've been feeling down, and I think talking might help."
"I'm dealing with some stuff, and I could use some support."
“I’d love to get your advice on something.”
“I need to vent.”
“Have you ever felt like___________(how you’re feeling)?”
I DON'T WANT TO TALK
Things you can say when you don't want to talk about it:
"I'm not ready to talk about it yet."
"I appreciate your concern, but I'd rather not discuss it right now."
"I need some time to process things on my own."
"I'm trying to figure things out, but I'm not ready to talk about it."
"I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed, and I just need some space right now."
“I appreciate that, I’m just not ready/don’t have time to talk right now.”
“I don’t feel like talking, but I’ll take a hug.”
“Can we talk about __________ instead for now? I will reach out when I am ready.”
Life can throw some curveballs, but it shouldn't feel like every day is a struggle. If you're finding it hard to cope, there's hope and help available. You can take a mental health test for free and in private at lifewaysmi.org/screening. And if you or someone you know is in crisis, there are resources you can reach out to:
Call: LifeWays 24/7 Crisis Phoneline1 (800) 284-8288
Call: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Dial 9-8-8
Chat: Chat at 988lifeline.org
Text: You can also text HELLO to 741741 to reach Crisis Text Line.