Some people eat compulsively to cope with stress and emotions.

Food addicts, like alcoholics, have a disease where they are powerless over food. You can't stop. You may have tried dieting, pills, smoking, vomiting, laxatives, and excessive exercise to control your weight.

You're discouraged after trying so hard and beating yourself up for not being able to control it. You are not alone! There are many people in 12 step recovery that have successfully gotten their eating under control.

What is OA?

There is a solution. Overeaters Anonymous is a 12 step support group based on the 12 steps of Alcoholic Anonymous. It is a free group for anyone struggling with food addiction, anorexia or bulimia, or night eating.

Components of Overeaters Anonymous

• Meetings that share personal stories of recovery

• Sponsors who are willing to help you

• A focus on teaching the 12 steps and 12 traditions

• Slogans and sayings like One Day at a Time for stress management

• Outside support from other members

There are different types of meetings within OA. Some are called OA '"How" or "90 day" meetings that have a more structured approach including a food plan.

If you prefer a gentle approach, "regular" OA meetings (they are just called OA) helps you create a food plan. It's not a diet and calories club. You work at your own pace.

Finding a Sponsor

OA recommends getting a sponsor to guide you through the 12 steps, help you figure a food plan. It's like having a mentor showing you how the program works. This becomes a very important connection to start the process of opening up about the addiction.

Pick someone who has what you want, whether it's a happy attitude, weight loss, or a sense of healthy self-esteem that you want for yourself.

What if you're not comfortable?

Sometimes, people are uncomfortable with groups find a smaller meetings or if that doesn't feel right, check out phone or online meetings. Seeking therapy is another option if you need the confidentiality of therapy. If you'd like to find our more about 12 step programs, read my blog 12 Reasons to Get Into Recovery.

Feel free to call, text or email me if you have questions or would like to get a 15 minute phone consultation. 

There is freedom from food obsession. You do not have to suffer with this alone. Call Overeaters Anonymous today so you can get the support you heal to heal from food addiction.

Get access to my private resource library that includes:

• Confidence guide

• The Four Relationship Killers

• 20 Things to Do When You're Angry

• Short videos and worksheets

• Tips for handling anxiety and more!