Overeaters Anonymous

Comedores Compulsivos Anónimos (Overeaters Anonymous) group in

Overeaters Anonymous (OA) is an international fellowship of individuals who, through shared experience, strength, and hope, are recovering from compulsive overeating, binge eating, anorexia, bulimia, and other specified feeding or eating disorders. OA was founded in January 1960 by Rozanne S. and two other individuals in Los Angeles, California. Modeled after the Twelve-Step program of Alcoholics Anonymous, OA offers a program of recovery that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of compulsive eating.

History

The foundation of Overeaters Anonymous in 1960 marked a significant development in addressing compulsive overeating and related eating disorders. The founders, recognizing the success of the Alcoholics Anonymous Twelve-Step program in treating alcoholism, adapted its principles to address the specific challenges of compulsive overeating. The growth of OA has been substantial, with groups now meeting in over 80 countries around the world.

Program

The core of the Overeaters Anonymous program is the Twelve Steps, which members follow to achieve and maintain abstinence from compulsive eating. The Twelve Traditions also guide the organization, ensuring its unity and focus on recovery. OA does not endorse any specific diet plan; instead, members are encouraged to develop a personalized plan of eating with the guidance of a sponsor, who is an experienced OA member committed to supporting others in their recovery.

Meetings

OA meetings are the heart of the program, providing a safe and supportive environment where members can share their experiences, strengths, and hopes with one another. There are several types of meetings, including face-to-face, online, and telephone meetings, to accommodate the diverse needs of its membership.

Membership

Membership in Overeaters Anonymous is open to anyone who wishes to stop eating compulsively. There are no dues or fees for membership; OA is self-supporting through member contributions. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively.

Impact

Overeaters Anonymous has had a profound impact on the lives of many of its members. Through the program, members report improvements in physical health, emotional well-being, and spiritual growth. The fellowship of OA provides a community of support that is vital to long-term recovery from compulsive eating.

Criticism and Challenges

As with any recovery program, OA faces criticism and challenges. Some critics argue that the focus on abstinence may not be suitable for all individuals with eating disorders. Others question the effectiveness of the Twelve-Step approach. Despite these challenges, many members find lasting recovery through the OA program.

See Also

• Twelve-Step Program
• Eating Disorders
• Alcoholics Anonymous

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