How to Use the EX Community

Read tips from EX Community members about how to use the EX Community to get support, help others on their quit journeys, and how to get started.

Going on an adventure by yourself can feel empowering and bold. You may also sometimes feel lost or lonely. Quitting is like this, too. Having others alongside you can make a big difference.

The EX Community is the longest-running and largest online community for people quitting smoking, vaping, and tobacco. Research shows that people who post and comment in the EX Community are more likely to successfully quit. Even just reading other people’s posts can help you quit, too.

Here are tips from EX Community members about how to use the EX Community to get support, help others on their quit journeys, and where to start if you’re not feeling sure.

How to get support from the EX Community

  • Talk through the challenges of quitting smoking with other people who understand what you’re going through.
    • “I have a lot of shame and guilt around my "dirty secret," and am thankful to have a community of people to grow with and overcome this once and for all.”-KSSilva23
  • Ask for accountability or advice from thousands of people on their own journey to quit smoking.
    • “If you're struggling, stay close and reach out whenever you need to or just want to vent. We're all here to help you in any way we can!” –MarilynH
  • Celebrate your successes, big and small.
    • “I have a little celebration today … 300 days smober. It does get easier. It really, really does. Gratitude to all those here at EX who supported me and cheered me on. For every fellow warrior here in this community, I salute you and rejoice with you for every day won.” -tburton1004
  • Visit and post when you’re having a craving or going through a hard time for a guaranteed response.
    • “I come to this page whenever I have an urge and by the time I am done updating myself on what's new and reading through some discussions, the urge has passed.”-Jen_819

How to support other people in the EX Community

  • Comment on posts with respect and empathy.
    • "I love seeing the comments from people. It was so comforting seeing repeated comments on my blog knowing that someone is looking out for you and also having new people leave a few words. You never know when a simple “way to go “can really help someone with their quit" –Livebetter2023
  • Make suggestions if people ask for them while recognizing that there is no one right way to quit.
    • "Everyone's journey to quitting is not going to be the same. What worked for you, may not work for me. It takes courage to come here and pour your heart out to strangers, while in the throes of nicotine addiction. Respect that." – biscuit9
  • Share your own story, even if you’re having a hard time. Being honest about your quit can let others know they aren’t alone.
    • "In the beginning what I wanted to read was live in the moment real life testimony from people who were quit under six months whether they had relapsed, slipped or went on to be a success. Those were the stories that helped me the most." –Maki

Not sure where to start?

  • Check out the recent activity

    Just poke around, read any post that draws your attention, see what people are talking about. If there’s a particular topic you’re interested in, use the search bar to look for it. Like or comment on any post if you’re feeling so inclined.

  • Read a Mayo Clinic blog

    Browse blogs written by experts at the Mayo Clinic’s Nicotine Dependence Center. Blogs cover a range of topics, including stress, relapse, weight, and much more.

  • Take the Daily Pledge

    Join other people pledging to stay smoke-free for the day in a chain of support and accountability.

  • Post a goodbye letter

    Share a goodbye letter to smoking. It can help build strength and bring closure. Take a few moments to think about your history with cigarettes. Imagine your future free from it. How will your life be different?

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