Become An EX Is One Year Old

[Dr_Hurt]

The Become An EX site and social network is officially one year old. Since the network opened, there has been a phenomenal amount of discussion, questioning, sharing, and connecting that has taken place online. Some people have poignantly asked for help and support, and others have responded with caring and by sharing their experiences.

It is really amazing to me to see all the activity that takes place in the community. Individuals who previously might have been alone, now join the network and connect with others in groups like QPC (Quit Party Central), or in a group with others who have a similar quit date. They find folks from the same geographic area, or connect with people who focus on avoiding relapse or managing triggers.

Looking through the diverse blogs, comments and discussions there are a few common themes:
1. There are many people who are very motivated to beat the difficult dependence on tobacco
2. There is comfort and strength in joining a community in which people understand
3. There are many wonderful people who are willing to put time and thought into helping others.

We at the Mayo Clinic feel very grateful to be part of this network and wish all of you another year of getting stronger and healthier. We need to continue to reach out to others so that they can share in this rich experience.

Dr. Richard D. Hurt is an internationally recognized expert on tobacco dependence. A native of Murray, Kentucky, he joined Mayo Clinic in 1976 and is now a Professor of Medicine at its College of Medicine. In 1988, he founded the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center and since then its staff has treated over 33,000 patients for tobacco dependence. Send your questions directly to Dr. Hurt at AskTheExpert@becomeanex.org