between acquaintance and friend is a variable ravine

and in my part of the land greetings are clues with “hi. how are you?” standard for an acquaintance and “hey, how’s it goin?” a little more friendly and “billy! whatcha up to?” very likely friend to friend

you are most of the time “fine, thanks. how are you?” with acquaintances

but most of the time no matter the degree of intimacy you tend to avoid unburdening of issues and troubles

a true and caring friend will sense that you are troubled and know you well enough to try to draw you out if that is the best thing for you

so…how are you,

my friend?