10 Ways to Express Concern for Someone’s Health
When someone you care about isn’t feeling well, the right words can offer comfort, show support, and strengthen your connection. These 10 ways to express concern for someone’s health help you respond with empathy—whether they’re sick, stressed, recovering, or just having a tough day. From gentle check-ins to sincere offers of help, these phrases are warm, natural, and culturally appropriate in English-speaking settings.
Common Ways to Say ‘Are You Feeling Okay?’
Gentle & Caring Check-Ins
- Are you feeling okay? The most common and sincere way to show immediate concern. You look tired—are you feeling okay?
- How are you holding up? Suggests you know they’ve been through something hard. It’s been a rough week—I just wanted to ask, how are you holding up?
- You don’t look well—everything alright? Observant and kind—not pushy, but open. You don’t look well—everything alright? You seem pale.
- Is everything okay with you? Warm and general—good when you sense something’s off. You’ve been quiet today—is everything okay with you?
Supportive & Empathetic
- I’ve been thinking about you—how are you doing? Shows ongoing care, not just a quick ask. I’ve been thinking about you—how are you doing since your surgery?
- That sounds really tough—how’s your energy these days? Validates their struggle and checks on their well-being. That sounds really tough—how’s your energy these days?
- Don’t push yourself too hard—your health comes first. Caring advice that prioritizes their well-being. Don’t push yourself too hard—your health comes first.
Offers of Help
- Can I get you anything? Simple, practical, and deeply kind. You’re resting—can I get you anything? Water? Soup?
- Let me know if you need anything—even just someone to talk to. Opens the door for emotional or physical support. Let me know if you need anything—even just someone to talk to.
- Please take care of yourself—and don’t hesitate to reach out. Warm, respectful, and gives them space while showing you care. Please take care of yourself—and don’t hesitate to reach out.
Real-Life Dialogues
Friend: [Coughs] Sorry—I’m just a little under the weather.
You: Oh no! Are you feeling okay?
Friend: Just a cold.
You: Can I get you anything? Soup? Tea?
Friend: You’re sweet—maybe just some water.
Colleague: I’ve been dealing with a lot lately—sleep, stress, the whole thing.
You: How are you holding up?
Colleague: Honestly? Not great.
You: Please take care of yourself—and don’t hesitate to reach out.
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Noticing someone looks unwell | Are you feeling okay? | Immediate, kind, and non-intrusive. |
| Checking on someone after a known hardship | I’ve been thinking about you—how are you doing? | Shows thoughtfulness and sustained care. |
| Offering practical help | Can I get you anything? | Simple, actionable, and deeply comforting. |
| Supporting someone emotionally | Let me know if you need anything—even just someone to talk to. | Validates emotional needs without pressure. |
Practice Tip
Next time someone seems off—even a little tired—try saying, “Are you feeling okay?” or “How are you holding up?” It’s a small phrase that can mean a lot.
Why This Matters
- Using these 10 ways to express concern for someone’s health builds trust, shows emotional intelligence, and strengthens relationships.
- It’s a key part of social fluency in English—native speakers check in often, gently, and sincerely.
- These phrases are appropriate across cultures, workplaces, and friendships—making your English both kind and effective.
Caring for others begins with a simple question. Try using one of these 10 ways to express concern for someone’s health this week—you might just brighten someone’s day. Happy learning! 😊
