I have the perception that HN is quite ruthless with the feedback. I appreciate constructive criticism, and HN is mostly constructive and self moderates against non-constructive criticisms, but for me, HN is the platform that gives me the highest anxiety when I think about launching something - more than product hunt.

Edit: and I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that if you only give someone encouraging words and positive feedback , you are doing them a disservice by stunting their growth or sending them down a wrong path.

This. I'm giving feedback, it's because I care about the person and this community. It could be considered mean by some but I genuinely do my best to deliver it in good faith. I also understand that "my best" could be not good enough though!