The Spiral Staircase Support Group Rules and Disclosures 

Confidentiality is Key

• What’s shared in the group stays in the group. Do not discuss or share other members' experiences, names, or personal information outside the chatroom.

Respect Each Other’s Journey

• Everyone is at a different point in their recovery. Approach each interaction with empathy, respect, and understanding.

No Judgment or Criticism

• This is a safe space. Avoid judging others' experiences, choices, or feelings. Offer support and encouragement, not criticism.

Avoid Triggers

• Be mindful of language that may trigger others. For example, avoid sharing explicit details of substance use or using graphic language.

Focus on Solutions, Not Just Problems

• While it’s okay to share struggles, try to also discuss what has helped you or what steps you’re taking to overcome challenges.

No Promotion of Substances or Harmful Behavior

• Do not glorify or promote substance use, self-harm, or other risky behaviors. This is a recovery-focused environment.

Respect Each Member’s Privacy

• Avoid asking overly personal questions or pressing someone to share if they are not comfortable.

Use “I” Statements

• Share from your personal perspective to avoid generalizations and to foster open, personal communication (e.g., “I feel…” instead of “You should…”).

No Spamming or External Links

• Do not share unrelated links, promotional content, or spam. Only relevant resources approved by moderators are permitted.

Reach Out to Moderators for Help

• If a conversation becomes too intense or you feel uncomfortable, reach out to a moderator for support or guidance.

Be Patient and Allow Everyone a Voice

• Give others the opportunity to speak and share. Avoid dominating the conversation or interrupting others.

No Solicitation of Personal Relationships or Meeting Outside

• This is a space for support, not for initiating personal or romantic relationships. Respect the boundaries of the group.

Disclosure of Consequences for Rule Violations

Our group chat room is a space built on trust, confidentiality, and mutual respect. To maintain a supportive environment, we have established clear rules and expectations. By joining this chatroom, you agree to uphold these rules. Please read the following disclosure carefully to understand the consequences of any violations.

1. Confidentiality Breach

• First Violation: Warning issued, reminding the member of the importance of confidentiality.

• Second Violation: Temporary suspension from the group to ensure the privacy of all members.

• Third Violation: Permanent removal from the group and a ban from rejoining in the future.

2. Disrespectful or Judgmental Language

• First Violation: Warning issued, with guidance on respectful communication in the group.

• Second Violation: Temporary suspension and a requirement to meet with a moderator before rejoining.

• Third Violation: Permanent removal if patterns of disrespect or judgment continue.

3. Triggering or Explicit Content

• First Violation: Warning issued, with a reminder to avoid explicit or triggering details.

• Second Violation: Temporary suspension, with a discussion on appropriate content.

• Third Violation: Permanent removal if the issue persists.

4. Solicitation of Personal Relationships

• Immediate Action: Suspension pending review, as this compromises the integrity of the support space.

• If Repeated: Permanent removal to maintain group safety and boundaries.

5. External Promotion or Spamming

• Immediate Removal: If any member promotes substances, products, or unrelated content, they will be removed without prior warning.

6. Failing to Respect Moderation Decisions

• First Violation: Warning issued with an explanation of the moderation process.

• Second Violation: Temporary suspension to allow reflection on group guidelines.

• Third Violation: Permanent removal if respect for moderation cannot be maintained.

Appeals and Support

• Members who feel they were removed unfairly may submit an appeal to group moderators for review. Our goal is not punishment but maintaining a supportive environment for everyone.

By participating, you commit to respecting these guidelines. Violation of these rules will lead to the appropriate consequence, as outlined above. We value each member’s contribution to the group and aim to ensure it remains a space for healing, encouragement, and recovery.

Thank you for understanding and supporting these principles.

Disclosure of Exceptions to Confidentiality

Your privacy is of the utmost importance to us, and maintaining confidentiality within this support group is a core principle. However, there are rare and specific circumstances in which we may need to break confidentiality to ensure the safety of our members and comply with legal or ethical obligations. Please read the following disclosure carefully to understand these exceptions.

Situations Where Confidentiality May Be Broken

1. Imminent Threat to Self

• If a member expresses intentions or behavior that indicates they are at immediate risk of harming themselves, confidentiality may be broken to contact emergency services or a crisis response team to ensure their safety.

2. Imminent Threat to Others

• If a member shares information indicating that they may pose a risk of serious harm to another individual or group, we may need to report this to the appropriate authorities to prevent potential danger.

3. Abuse and Neglect

• If there is disclosure or reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect involving vulnerable individuals, such as children, the elderly, or persons with disabilities, we may be legally obligated to report this to relevant protective services.

4. Court Orders or Legal Obligations

• In the rare case that we are required by law (e.g., court orders) to disclose information shared within the group, we will comply with legal obligations. We will make every reasonable effort to notify the member involved before taking this action.

Our Commitment to You

• We will always strive to protect your privacy and will only break confidentiality under the aforementioned circumstances. If a situation arises where we need to take this step, we will do so with the utmost care and consideration for your well-being.

• We will aim to communicate openly about any actions taken, whenever possible, and provide support through the process.

Acknowledgment and Understanding

By participating in this support group, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to these exceptions to confidentiality.