We all have those days when we’re just not feeling our best—physically, emotionally, or even mentally. And sometimes, saying “I am not feeling well” feels too plain or just doesn’t quite fit the moment. Finding the right words can make a big difference. Whether you’re talking to your boss, texting a friend, or writing a sweet message to someone you love, using a warmer or more thoughtful phrase can show that you care about how you communicate.
Let’s explore 20 better, kinder, and more expressive ways to say “I’m not feeling well,” complete with examples and tips on when to use each one.
What Does “I Am Not Feeling Well” Mean?
When someone says, “I’m not feeling well,” they’re usually saying they don’t feel good. It could be because they’re sick, tired, or just out of sorts. This phrase is general, which makes it useful—but it’s also a bit vague.
Sometimes, using more specific or personal language can help the person you’re talking to understand how you really feel, and it makes the conversation feel more human.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “I Am Not Feeling Well”?
Yes, it is! Saying “I am not feeling well” is both polite and professional, especially in workplaces or formal situations. But depending on who you’re speaking to, you might want to say it differently.
For example, you might want something softer for a friend or something more specific for your boss. Having more ways to say it helps you match your words to the moment.
Pros and Cons of Saying “I Am Not Feeling Well”
Pros:
- It’s polite and neutral.
- It works in many situations.
- It avoids going into too much detail.
Cons:
- It can feel cold or generic.
- It doesn’t say much about how you’re really feeling.
- It might be unclear if you’re physically sick or emotionally off.
Synonyms For “I Am Not Feeling Well”
- I’m feeling under the weather
- I’m not feeling like myself today
- I’m feeling a bit off
- I think I’m coming down with something
- I’m feeling a bit off balance today
- I need to rest today
- I’m feeling run down
- I’m a little out of sorts
- My energy’s just not there today
- I’m taking it slow today
- I’m not at 100%
- I’m feeling wiped out
- I’m not doing so hot
- I’m needing a breather
- I’m just not all there today
- I’m having an off day
- I’m feeling kind of low
- I’m taking a mental health day
- I’m not up for much today
1. I’m Feeling Under the Weather
Sometimes you just feel off, and this friendly phrase fits perfectly.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Taking a Sick Day
Hi Sarah,
I’m feeling a bit under the weather today, so I’ll be taking the day to rest and recover. I’ll catch up on everything tomorrow.
Best,
Lena
Best Use:
Great for casual conversations, texts, or informal work emails.
Additional Note:
This phrase is kind of cozy—it says you’re not at your best without sounding too dramatic.
2. I’m Not Feeling Like Myself Today
This one’s great when you’re not physically sick, but just not you.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Update
Hi Jamie,
I just wanted to let you know I’m not feeling quite like myself today, so I may be a bit slower than usual. I’ll still be online if anything urgent comes up.
Warmly,
Marcus
Best Use:
Perfect for emotional or mental off days.
Additional Note:
It’s gentle, human, and helps others understand without needing all the details.
3. I’m Feeling a Bit Off
Short and sweet—just enough to say something’s not right.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Need a Break
Hey Alex,
I’m feeling a bit off today, so I’m going to take some time to recharge. I’ll be back to normal soon.
Thanks for understanding,
Ben
Best Use:
Great for personal or work use, when you’re not sure exactly what’s wrong.
Additional Note:
This keeps things light but still clear.
4. I Think I’m Coming Down With Something
Use this one when you feel like a cold or flu might be on its way.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Health Update
Hi Dr. Patel,
I think I’m coming down with something and don’t want to risk spreading it, so I’ll rest today and monitor how I feel.
Kind regards,
Jasmine
Best Use:
Useful when warning others that you might get sicker.
Additional Note:
It’s polite and shows you’re being thoughtful about others.
5. I’m Feeling a Bit Off Balance Today
This is a gentle way to say you’re feeling out of sync.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Working From Home Today
Hi Team,
I’m feeling a bit off balance today, so I’ll be working from home while I rest and take care of myself.
Best,
Kira
Best Use:
Good for emotional, mental, or even slight physical discomfort.
Additional Note:
It’s empathetic and open, without oversharing.
6. I Need to Rest Today
Sometimes, the best way to say you’re not well is to simply say you need rest.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Resting Today
Hi Carla,
I just wanted to let you know I need to rest today. I’ll be offline and taking it easy to recover.
Thanks so much,
Noah
Best Use:
Perfect when you want to be clear without over-explaining.
Additional Note:
Short, kind, and honest. People respect when you listen to your body.
7. I’m Feeling Run Down
This one fits when you’re tired, overwhelmed, or just plain worn out.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Out Sick Today
Hey Sam,
I’m feeling really run down, so I’ll be taking the day to rest and recharge. Let me know if anything urgent pops up.
Take care,
Maya
Best Use:
Good for physical or emotional exhaustion.
Additional Note:
Sounds real and relatable—everyone’s felt like this before!
8. I’m a Little Out of Sorts
It’s a gentle, old-school way of saying you’re not your usual self.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Slowing Down
Hi Liam,
I’m a little out of sorts today, so I’ll be stepping back a bit to reset. I’ll check in later this afternoon.
Warmly,
Tara
Best Use:
When you’re not sick, but something just feels off.
Additional Note:
It adds a touch of charm—like something your grandma might’ve said (and she was wise).
9. My Energy’s Just Not There Today
Ever have one of those days where you’re just dragging? This one’s for that.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Taking It Slow
Hi Amy,
My energy’s just not there today, so I’m going to ease up on things and focus on light tasks.
Appreciate your patience,
Drew
Best Use:
When you’re still showing up but want to manage expectations.
Additional Note:
This keeps it honest without sounding dramatic.
10. I’m Taking It Slow Today
This one is low-key, calm, and sets the tone without fuss.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Slower Pace Today
Hey Max,
I’m taking it slow today. Just wanted to give you a heads-up in case things move at a gentler pace on my end.
Thanks for understanding,
Priya
Best Use:
For gentle check-ins when you’re trying to work at half-speed.
Additional Note:
It feels calm, not heavy—which makes it easier for others to respond with care.
11. I’m Not at 100%
An easy way to say you’re not totally okay—but not totally down either.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Slightly Off Today
Hi Sofia,
I’m not at 100% today, so I might be a bit slower to respond. Hoping to bounce back soon.
All the best,
Ty
Best Use:
Good for casual work settings or texts to friends.
Additional Note:
It sounds measured and responsible—great balance.
12. I’m Feeling Wiped Out
A little more dramatic, but in a relatable way.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Rest Day
Hey Lucas,
I’m feeling totally wiped out, so I’ll be off the grid today. Hoping to come back refreshed tomorrow.
Take care,
Erin
Best Use:
Great for days when rest is non-negotiable.
Additional Note:
Everyone gets it—it’s the human version of a phone running on 1%.
13. I’m Not Doing So Hot
This one’s casual and a little playful, but still honest.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Quick Heads-Up
Hey Jess,
Just a quick note—I’m not doing so hot today. I’ll be around, but taking it easy.
Thanks for your support,
Caleb
Best Use:
Great for lighthearted conversations or messages to close coworkers.
Additional Note:
The informal tone makes it easier to connect emotionally.
14. I’m Needing a Breather
If life’s been too much lately, this one speaks truth with kindness.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Stepping Back
Hi Nina,
I’m needing a breather today—just a bit of space to collect myself. I’ll be offline and back tomorrow.
Thanks so much,
Owen
Best Use:
Perfect for mental health breaks or emotional resets.
Additional Note:
It shows self-awareness and models healthy boundaries.
15. I’m Just Not All There Today
A warm, honest way to admit your mind is elsewhere.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Not Fully Present
Hey Eli,
I’m just not all there today—feeling a bit foggy and distracted. Trying to get through the basics and regroup.
Appreciate your understanding,
Zoe
Best Use:
When your head’s in the clouds or emotions are heavy.
Additional Note:
It’s real and vulnerable—but still shows you’re trying.
16. I’m Having an Off Day
One of the easiest, most relatable phrases on this list.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Slower Than Usual
Hi Jordan,
I’m having an off day, so I might be a bit slower to reply. Hoping tomorrow’s better.
Thanks,
Finn
Best Use:
Use it any time—it’s simple, short, and honest.
Additional Note:
This one fits everyone’s life at some point.
17. I’m Feeling Kind of Low
A gentle way to say you’re feeling emotionally down.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Personal Day
Hi Carla,
I’m feeling kind of low today and need some time to rest and reflect. I’ll be taking a personal day.
Thank you for the space,
Leo
Best Use:
Best for emotional honesty—especially with trusted folks.
Additional Note:
It opens the door for real connection or support.
18. I’m Taking a Mental Health Day
Clear, direct, and becoming more accepted every year.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Mental Health Day
Hi Brian,
I’m taking a mental health day today to recharge and reset. I’ll return tomorrow feeling more grounded.
Warm regards,
Chloe
Best Use:
Perfect for formal or professional requests.
Additional Note:
It shows strength—not weakness—to prioritize mental wellness.
19. I’m Not Up for Much Today
Soft and simple, like putting up an “out of order” sign for the day.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Slowing Down
Hi Tanya,
Just wanted to say I’m not up for much today—doing the basics and resting the rest of the time.
Thank you for understanding,
Raj
Best Use:
Use it when you’re tired but don’t want to go into detail.
Additional Note:
It sets expectations with kindness and care.
20. I’m Dealing With Something and Need a Break
Sometimes, this is the most honest and powerful thing you can say.
Scenario Example:
Subject: Taking a Pause
Hey Jonah,
I’m dealing with something right now and need a break. I’ll check in when I’m feeling more stable.
Thanks for your patience,
Ava
Best Use:
For those heavier days—personal, private, and necessary.
Additional Note:
You don’t owe details. This phrase gives space with grace.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to stick with “I’m not feeling well.”
With all these 20 thoughtful and kind ways to say it, you now have a whole toolbox of words that feel more human, more you. Choose the phrase that fits the moment—and your heart.
Because sometimes, the smallest words carry the biggest care.
