A
male
age
30-35,
*nickx
writes:Need advice to become a better agony aunt :P didnt feel it belonged asked in the question section since its not a relationship question.Lately, more and more questions are coming to my inbox. I've had everything from dating problems to marriage problems.I mean, its good and im flattered to know people like my advice THAT much, but im getting some questions in my inbox that i would ordinarily skip over, that i dont have sufficient knowledge or experience at to help. Im only 17 :) other than logic, there are some questions i just cant answer, that i would normally skip over and let someone more experienced take over.Whats the best way to tell people this isnt the best way to ask a question? I mean if they specifically come to me, i feel obliged to help, and want to help as best i can, but it may not be the best advice in all cases. I hate to be rude and/or turn people away.Thanks :)Nick. Reply to this Question
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female
reader, DrPsych  +, writes (18 July 2010):
 It is ok not to answer every question. I personally don't like answering overtly sexual questions as it is outside my comfort zone to discuss some issues over the net. I think if you put a note on your profile saying you are not happy to advise on certain topics it may deter people from contacting you regarding those issues. Good luck and keep up the good work!
A
reader, anonymous, writes (18 July 2010): You're doing the best you can and that is all that matters. By asking this question, it shows how much you care. If you feel like you can't answer a question, then simply say "I appreciate you taking the time to write, but I suggest you contact other agony aunts and uncles on this site who would be better suited in this area."
It's nothing to worry about or feel bad about either- you need to make time for yourself and your studies. Take care!
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A
female
reader, CindyCares  +, writes (18 July 2010):
 You are a very responsible and scrupolous young Uncle, congratulations.
In my mind, anyway, it's always a question of "buyers beware ".
I too get several PMs and at times it's even moving seeing how people trust me to indicate a solution for their problems.
But, I am not a psychiatrist,not a priest, not a social worker, and ,alas, not even a particularly wise person. I never claimed to be any of that either in my profile or in my answers. I simply give my opinion - if people wants to
base their decisions upon it or not, it's totally up to them.
If you really feel you can't help, you can simply say what you just told us " I would love to help you, but I am only 17 and I feel I do not have enough life experience to assist you in this predicament".
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A
male
reader, Roshii +, writes (18 July 2010):
 If you cant give advice to someone then simply you cant.
Logic isnt always the best advice, Honest rational posts drawn from experiences youve had or witnessed makes for better advice.
Theres always going to be that one person you cant help. And rather than ignore them, you should just tell them you have no idea how to help, in a polite manner, (if you have anyone in mind who might be able to help, Then suggest they talk to that person).
Dont judge your own understanding on age alone either, You set your self for a fall before youve even began. Im 23, 6 years on you maybe, But im sure theres things youve experienced that i havent, That makes your advice valuble Not limited. Remember that :D
Roshiii
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