Summarize:

These are likely individuals you are close with and trust on a personal level. Tell them how you are feeling in a more meaningful and detailed way. You may also be honest and tell a coworker or peer you are close with how you are actually feeling. Respond by saying, “Actually, I’ve been feeling…” or “You know, I have been feeling…” If you are feeling depressed or going through a tough time, you could also mention that so that your loved ones can help you.   For example, you may respond, “Actually, I’ve been feeling a little down lately. I think I might be struggling with stress and anxiety” if you have not been feeling well or like yourself. You may respond, “You know, I’ve been feeling great. I finally have a job I love and I’m feeling more confident these days” if you are feeling positive and happy. ” Let them know if you are not feeling well or have a health issue that has been bothering you, as this will allow them to treat you properly. You should also give an honest answer to any other medical professionals, such as a nurse or a paramedic. If you are not feeling well, they need to know that so they can help you to feel better. This response will allow you to be honest and let the person know you are not feeling well. They may then ask you more questions and show sympathy for how you are feeling. Only use this response if you want to talk about your sickness or illness with the person. It is usually a prompt for the other person to find out more and try to make you feel better. ” Let the person know you appreciate their question and their willingness to listen to your long answer. This is a good way to end your response on a positive note, even if your response was about how you are feeling negative or not well. You can also say, “I appreciate that you asked how I was, thank you” or “Thanks for listening.” Show the person you want to engage in deeper conversation by asking “How are you?” once you have responded to their question.  For example, you may say, “I’m fine, thanks for asking. How are you?” or “I’m okay, thanks. How about you?” For some people, if you ask them the same question, they may nod and say "I'm good" or "I'm fine" and then be on their way. Don't be discouraged; asking how someone is doing is sometimes not taken as a real invitation to say much.
Give a detailed answer when responding to a close friend, a family member, or your partner. Express how you are feeling. Provide a detailed response when your doctor asks “How are you? Say “Not great” or “I think I’m coming down with something” if you are feeling ill. Wrap up your response with “Thanks for asking. Ask the person how they are doing.