Tips for Posting 

Stay On Topic:

• All posts should be related to the process of quitting smoking (or other tobacco products) or remaining quit.
• If you want to change the subject start a new thread in a forum where the subject title fits.  This way you won’t interrupt a thread (discussion). 
• Do not post copyrighted material, links to websites or promote services.  

Keep It Confidential:

• The discussion boards can be viewed by the public and it is possible for content to come up as a result of an internet search.
• Your posts become part of the public domain and SHO may use them to promote the program.
• Remain anonymous by not using your last name or other information in your posts that might identify you, like the name of your employer.
• By keeping the forums anonymous it creates a safe place for members to share their personal experiences.
• Do not use “shout outs” (calling out to a specific member) and/or press a member for personal details. 

Be a Good Community Member:

• SHO is a moderated community and any post may be edited or deleted at the discretion of the moderators.  Posting privileges may be cancelled.
• Help create an environment that is welcoming and positive.
• Remember everyone’s experience with quitting is individual and may be different from yours.
• Be non-judgmental and respectful of other members’ beliefs in all your posts and choice of avatar.
• Mind your manners.
• Watch your language-profanity and sexually explicit content are prohibited.

• Share your own successes and challenges rather than offering advice based on hearsay or listing something you read about.

   (see user agreement for more details) 

Members Helping Members: 

• It is more friendly and respectful to respond to a member’s post by starting with their user name.
• Avoid typing in all CAPITAL LETTERS as this is considered shouting.  
• Consider saying thank you when you find someone’s response helpful.
• Remember that you don’t have to solve other members’ problems.  Just try to be supportive and acknowledge their difficulties. 
• Encourage other members to express themselves. 
• Try not to exaggerate or minimize other members’ emotions. For example, if a member says, "I am feeling a little down" a response stating, "I am hearing that you are depressed right now" wouldn’t be appropriate. 
• Remind other members of their successes, helping them appreciate their achievements.  
• By supporting others through the quitting process it will help you stay motivated and remain smokefree.
• If you are a long time successful quitter your posts in the forums often motivate others.  As a mentor your greatest contribution is through sharing your personal successes and lessons learned.