There is a difference
between emotional health and mental health. Obviously they are closely linked, but they are totally different.

A psychiatrist is for mental health. Conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc. Advice - no matter how good - won't make a jot of difference to you if you suffer from mental health problems. Getting the balance of chemicals right, however, will.

If it's emotional problems you've got, then you need a counsellor. Someone who is paid to listen to you talking about your feelings and how life is affecting you, and who can empathise, validate your feelings, and make suggestions which you can take on board, and ultimately help you take responsibility for your emotions. This is "advice".

It seems to me that the spikiness in this topic has appeared in response to the misuse of the word "psychiatric".

(And yes, I have generalised a bit too broadly perhaps... but I've seen both so I do know a little of which I speak)...
( warmfuzzies Isn't here, Wed 29 Apr 2009, 18:39, Reply)