Hello fellow MSFers

I posted this in a more technical space because I would like a more technical spin on answering a certain question, or rather to instigate a discussion surrounding a specific topic which I will mention next.

We know that folks come here for support, it is clear in the very name of these forums, and so that is what we tend to give, and in turn receive or vice versa.
But what happens when someone who seeks support is met with another’s honest opinion, one that may run counter to the authors opinion of the situation they are in/describing?
What is the ‘proper’ thing to do? Is honesty welcome if wrapped in a kind and empathetic package, does one ask the author if they wish to hear honest opinions? Do those with ideas counter to the standard structures of support stay out of said threads?
I wonder if there is an etiquette for this situation.

I know folks want to genuinely help and they feel honesty is the only true way to do so, I find myself in this position often here but I find myself “sitting this one out” because I don’t know how to approach it without causing offence.

I’m curious how you folks deal with this and how the members feel about constructive honesty and what that might even mean/look like.