Problems with food, body image and compulsive eating behaviors seem like they are everywhere. Whether that problem is obesity, anorexia, bulimia, excessive exercise or other compulsive behavior involving food or body image. And it is very clear that maladaptive eating is a huge factor in other chronic health problems that cause incredible morbidity and mortality in the United States.
Despite the scope of the problem, there is tremendous frustration at the challenges involved in helping people with compulsive food behaviors. While bariatric surgery, medications, and commercial diet programs can be very helpful for some, there are others who may experience brief success followed by relapse into old behaviors. Demoralization and shame plague the patient, while the caring professional is left with frustration and a sense of inadequacy.
The Overeaters Anonymous (OA) 12-step program offers a rich, multifaceted approach to the problem of compulsive overeating and food behaviors, promoting recovery on physical, emotional and spiritual levels. Within the fellowship, members work with fellow OA members who act as “sponsors”, guiding and supporting each other to develop a physical recovery plan that meets their individual needs. Sponsors also offer guidance as the member works on emotional and spiritual healing and growth. A real strength of the OA program is the fellowship available with others who suffer from compulsive eating behaviors. At OA meetings, members share their experiences with compulsive food behaviors and the strength, hope, and recovery they have found in the OA program.
OA members are encouraged to work with health care providers in the community when they recognize their need for professional services. Health care professionals' awareness of the OA program as an effective resource can enhance the recovery of individuals.
We invite you to explore our website oafoothill.org, to learn more about our approach. In particular, we suggest you look here:
More information can be found at OA.org, the website for the international OA organization. There are many resources there to help you learn about OA such as:
Thank you for your interest in finding out about OA. Should you need additional information please feel free to contact our Professional Outreach Chairperson Diane D. at (626) 233-6410 or email [email protected].
Despite the scope of the problem, there is tremendous frustration at the challenges involved in helping people with compulsive food behaviors. While bariatric surgery, medications, and commercial diet programs can be very helpful for some, there are others who may experience brief success followed by relapse into old behaviors. Demoralization and shame plague the patient, while the caring professional is left with frustration and a sense of inadequacy.
The Overeaters Anonymous (OA) 12-step program offers a rich, multifaceted approach to the problem of compulsive overeating and food behaviors, promoting recovery on physical, emotional and spiritual levels. Within the fellowship, members work with fellow OA members who act as “sponsors”, guiding and supporting each other to develop a physical recovery plan that meets their individual needs. Sponsors also offer guidance as the member works on emotional and spiritual healing and growth. A real strength of the OA program is the fellowship available with others who suffer from compulsive eating behaviors. At OA meetings, members share their experiences with compulsive food behaviors and the strength, hope, and recovery they have found in the OA program.
OA members are encouraged to work with health care providers in the community when they recognize their need for professional services. Health care professionals' awareness of the OA program as an effective resource can enhance the recovery of individuals.
We invite you to explore our website oafoothill.org, to learn more about our approach. In particular, we suggest you look here:
More information can be found at OA.org, the website for the international OA organization. There are many resources there to help you learn about OA such as:
Thank you for your interest in finding out about OA. Should you need additional information please feel free to contact our Professional Outreach Chairperson Diane D. at (626) 233-6410 or email [email protected].