We often ask, “How are you?” out of habit—an automatic greeting tossed out in passing. But what if we slowed down, asked with intention, and truly listened for the answer? 

In the world of mental health, one of the most underrated yet powerful tools we have is simply checking in. Whether it’s a text, a coffee chat, or a quiet moment of eye contact and empathy, checking in with someone can be a life-changing (and in some cases, life-saving) act. 

The Research: Why Checking In Matters 

We know that mental health isn’t always easy to see. Many people who are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or low may not feel comfortable sharing what they’re going through: a 2020 study found that nearly half of those experiencing depressive symptoms hadn’t told anyone—often because they worried about being judged or becoming a burden to others (Rees & Anderson, 2023). 

The good news is, even one person’s support can truly make a difference. Another 2020 research study shows that feeling cared for by fri...