My psychiatrist knows me very well, and knows his stuff in regards to his profession. As for really understanding how it feels to be mentally ill, beyond observation, I assume his knowledge is limited. He has always seemed a most stable kind of guy (save temper issues, which I also have). Beyond my mental illness, he also knows my personality well. That creates a bit of a bond. I totally adore him and I think he likes me pretty well, too. I am completely myself and open with him. I feel that my psychiatrist cares more than my own father...not that my father doesn't have love for me.

My therapist is getting to know me more and more. She also knows her profession well, but I'm unsure if she's ever experienced mental illness. As for understanding how I tick (personality), her knowledge is still slightly limited. I'll say that I've exposed my tender underbelly more to her than any other therapist, to date. That's a big deal for me.

My hubby and I know each other like the backs of our hands, and can pretty well predict each others thoughts/feelings. My husband knows depression and anxiety. He also grew up being exposed to many people with mental illness. He even has two siblings with bipolar disorder.