[Monarch Butterfly]

When someone enters a room and says "Hi" I reply the same way. No problem.

I never know how to reply when someone enters and says Hi, how are things? I haven't seen you in a while?" My doctor said that at one of my appointments. Last time I saw him was 6 months previous. I managed to say Hi, I'm okay ( I always say I'm ok, fine, good even if I feel like stressed, nervous).

What do I say in response to " I haven't seen you in a while?"

[Thunder Bow]

You can say "I haven't seen you in a while as well"

[Skeezyks]

The Skeezyks tends to be a sarcastic old goat, in real life. So his idea would be: "Yeah, well, all good things must come to an end, I guess..."

I just normally say...yeah it has been a while, you're right!

[Prism Bunny]

I have the same problem, and I worry about saying, "Fine." because then I instantly worry if I ruined the chance to bring up any issues with my Pdoc. I know the fear is irrational at this point, but I cannot help it. :S

He knows well me enough, after five years being a patient, that if I am at his office while cheerful and talkative; nothing is wrong. And if I go in quiet with an avoidant demeanor with difficulty speaking due to high anxiety, then I need adjustments to my medications.

When I am more avoidant, I will mumble,"Oh.. Yeah, it has been."

[Candle in the wind]

A quote my daughter would say with gentle sarcasim " that may be a good thing"

[Monarch Butterfly]

True I could say I haven't seen you in a awhile as well.

Lol at Skeezyks and Candle in the wind. Funny comments

Monarch, you don't owe anyone an explanation of what you have been up to. Unless you want to say something. I usually say "nothing much". It's not true but I guess I have trouble with this question too sometimes. It's no big deal to me though.

Oh I think I thought you meant, "what are u up to now?". But yeah, I like everyone elses responses. You got this.

[barbella]

Small talk, yikes. I guess you could just agree and nod your head and smile. It's a bit of an awkward thing. I do like the 1 'sarcastic' replies too & they could go over well if you make it clear it's just a joke.
This is not so easy for me either.

[Yzen]

Originally Posted by Monarch Butterfly

I never know how to reply when someone enters and says Hi, how are things? I haven't seen you in a while?" My doctor said that at one of my appointments. Last time I saw him was 6 months previous.

Your doctor is really saying, "How are you? Long time, no fee! "

[Prism Bunny]

Good one, Yzen! Haha

[Yzen]

I understand awkwardness around that question to. For me, it feels like the person is telling me "why has it been so long" and I feel apologetic and some times I will give an excuse like "I've been busy...". I know it is small talk but it seems like it sends a message.