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What to Say When Your Therapist Asks How Are You?

Published in Mental Health 2 mins read

It's a simple question, but it can feel loaded in a therapy session. Here are some ways to approach it:

Be Honest

  • Start with a brief overview of your general well-being: "I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed this week" or "Things are going okay, but I've been feeling anxious lately."
  • Focus on specific emotions or experiences: "I'm feeling frustrated with work" or "I'm struggling with a difficult family situation."
  • Don't be afraid to be vulnerable: Sharing your true feelings, even if they're negative, is crucial for therapy to be effective.

Offer Context

  • Explain what's contributing to your current state: "I've been feeling more stressed since my presentation at work" or "My anxiety has been higher since my friend moved away."
  • Provide details about your thoughts or behaviors: "I've been having trouble sleeping" or "I've been withdrawing from social situations."
  • Avoid generalizations: Instead of saying "I'm feeling bad," be specific about what you're experiencing.

It's Okay to Not Know

  • Acknowledge that you're unsure: "Honestly, I'm not sure how I'm feeling" or "I'm still trying to process everything."
  • Focus on your internal experience: "I'm feeling a lot of confusion right now" or "I'm just trying to get through each day."
  • Your therapist is there to support you: They understand that it can be difficult to articulate your feelings.

Remember, it's a Conversation

  • Your therapist will likely ask follow-up questions: This is an opportunity to explore your feelings in more depth.
  • Don't feel pressured to give a perfect answer: It's more important to be honest and open than to try to sound "good."
  • Therapy is a safe space to express yourself: Use this opportunity to talk about what's on your mind.

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