Overeaters Annonymous

[ToniC]

Has anyone attended these meetings? I've been thinking about going. I'm a binge eater and I thought maybe I would get some good advise on controlling myself.

[cs_carver]

What they do is share their own experience, strength and hope in applying the 12 Steps to their own eating addiction. To the extent that you can identify with their challenges and success, you can learn to find freedom from compulsive overeating.

You may be surprised by their focus--OA is more about turning over personal will to the care of a Higher Power than about "controlling oneself," exactly.

Would strongly suggest attending a few meetings, probably more than one (you might want to think about making a 6-meeting commitment before you make up your mind). Meetings are free, although they will pass a hat to help cover rent on the room--if you're low, you don't have to put anything in.

Good luck.

[misskimbee]

I started going last week. I have a meeting tonight at 7:30.

What I like so far about my OA group is that they are very welcoming, willing to share, and most importantly, they help me realize that I"m not alone.

All the shameful things I have done when it comes to my bingeing, purging and starving, they have done too. So I don't feel like a freak, and I don't feel like an extraordinary case of someone with serious eating issues.

I would suggest going.

They are an affectionate group of ladies too and my particular group likes to hug. There is a certain amount of camaraderie because of that, and it keeps me wanting to go back because I know I'll be understood there.

Good luck, I do hope you'll give it a shot.

[emndarmic]

I have never attended one of these meetings, but do think they are a good idea, but when I read this, I was reminded of one of my favorite cartoon episodes... The Flintstones... Do you remember when Fred attended one of those meetings and they sent that man to spy on him that would hit Fred over the head with a bat everytime he would try to eat something bad for him..
I am Sorry, just thought about it and laughed :lol:
I could be the one who followed you guys around,, just kidding..
Have a wonderful and clean weekend.

[misskimbee]

haha, if only i had someone to keep me in line daily! thanks for the laugh!

[Ayustar]

Where do you find places like this?

[cs_carver]

It might be under OA; it might be under Overeaters' Anonymous.

If it's not listed, you might also try calling an Alcoholics Anonymous Intergroup (again, maybe both under AA or the long way). They might know if there's a group locally.

Some of the treatment centers may be able to help you find a meeting, although you might get a bit of a sales pitch.

There's always google on the internet. http://www.oa.org/index.htm

[Ayustar]

Thank you, I will definately check that out.

[misskimbee]

Hey Ayu,

http://www.oa.org/all_about_meetings_results.htm?method=1&State=ON&statePulldown=%2Findex.htm%3Fstate%3DON&city=LONDON&day=&Submit=Search

[Ayustar]

It seems they have some in London, it seems very...Christian-faith based though, it just seems strange to me. Hmm, well, if I get to a point where I don't have a choice, I suppose.

[Judynyc]

I spent 2 yrs going to OA meeting several years ago. I did not find it Christian based as much as faith based as I'm Jewish and had no problem at all, talking about God. They do have writings for those that do not believe in God at all.

I learned alot while at those meetings. I attribute my success today with the things that I learned while going to the meetings and working with my sponsor. The workbooks are a great tool!! as are all the other readings!! I took what I needed and left the rest :idea:

If you are feeling like you do not have control of your eating and need to connect with others who understand this, I highly recommend that you use the link Kim put up and find a meeting near you. OA is an international organization with meetings all over the world.

Good luck!! :D

[misskimbee]

Yeah, we don't pray or anything. (Besides the serenity prayer, which is not a traditional Christian prayer)

"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

Courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

I think when they say "Higher power" and "God", it's almost like the default for something to believe in, but it's really up to you what you look to for faith or guidance. It's pretty laid back.

Good luck babes :)

[Ayustar]

Ok, I was just worried that it was like hard core Christian thing with prayers and things. That would be a bit odd for me, since I have no beliefs. But I should look into it. Thank sos much guys for clearing that up!