diff --git a/fedireads/outgoing.py b/fedireads/outgoing.py
index f4cb25a4..dc60b2c0 100644
--- a/fedireads/outgoing.py
+++ b/fedireads/outgoing.py
@@ -293,16 +293,15 @@ def handle_unfavorite(user, status):
 
 def handle_boost(user, status):
     ''' a user wishes to boost a status '''
-    try:
-        boost = models.Boost.objects.create(
-            boosted_status=status,
-            user=user,
-        )
-        boost.save()
-    except IntegrityError:
-        # you already boosted that
-        # TODO - doesn't work because unique constraint isn't enforcable.
+    if models.Boost.objects.filter(
+            boosted_status=status, user=user).exists():
+        # you already boosted that.
         return
+    boost = models.Boost.objects.create(
+        boosted_status=status,
+        user=user,
+    )
+    boost.save()
 
     boost_activity = activitypub.get_boost(boost)
     recipients = get_recipients(user, 'public')