diff --git a/pong_bot.py b/pong_bot.py
index 38fec53..156eab4 100755
--- a/pong_bot.py
+++ b/pong_bot.py
@@ -129,6 +129,15 @@ def onReceive(packet, interface):
             
             # If the packet is a DM (Direct Message) respond to it, otherwise validate its a message for us
             if packet['to'] == myNodeNum:
+                if message_string == help_message or message_string == welcome_message:
+                        # ignore help and welcome messages
+                        print(f"{log_timestamp()} Got Own Welcome/Help header. From: {get_name_from_number(message_from_id)}")
+                        return
+                elif "Try sending: ping @foo  or, help" in message_string:
+                        # ignore help and welcome messages
+                        print(f"{log_timestamp()} Got Help Message. From: {get_name_from_number(message_from_id)}")
+                        return
+                
                 if messageTrap(message_string):
                     print(f"{log_timestamp()} Received DM: {message_string} on Channel: {channel_number} From: {get_name_from_number(message_from_id)}")
                     # respond with a direct message