1. It was a long standing policy for those in power to require everyone to believe the Earth was flat too.
2. Is Sabby a moderator again?
3. Is PsychCentral a small community devoted to support for mental health and relationship issues?

I raise these points to gain enlightenment and not to be a contrarian.

From what I gather, having the original poster ask an admin or mod to remove the entire thread might be the better option. Those who responded might be less put out if the admin or mod explained the deletion was done at the request of the original poster.

Things get more complicated if a member seeks to have a post in a thread started by another member removed. I expect again a note explaining the removal of the post was at the request of the poster might help.

I understand the reason for not wanting to have to deal with removal of posts after a reasonable period of time. On the other hand, this site is frequented by those who seek support while dealing with illnesses. To say think it through and do it right the first time for some is akin to saying get over it and move on.

Nothing is so clear cut.