It’s a test and a trap. The “how are you” from a doctor is a handshake, not a question. If you say “good,” they’ll nod and scan the chart. You become a checkmark on a schedule. If you say “well…” and spill, you risk feeling dramatic, too much, like you just broke a rule.
Every time I want to say “fine” just to keep the gears turning. But then what’s the point of being in the room at all? You’re there because something isn’t working, something’s burning or stuck or just off. But admitting that right out loud, raw, no filter? Feels like asking for too much.
You’re supposed to answer for yourself, not for them. If you want help, cut through the script. Don’t save the punchline for later – drop it in the first line, see if they’re really listening. Most won’t be. Some will. The best ones nod and let you keep talking, even if it’s ugly or awkward or not what they planned.
Short answer? Say what hurts first. Make it weird if you have to. It’s your body on the line, not their office decor.