Overeaters Anonymous

I don't, but I know people that do. Like any self-help/support group, each group will have its own personality. It doesn't cost much to try, why don't you go and see if you like it? Some people do very well with these types of programs. They have a lot of great coping tools to use. It's like AA or NA...somewhat spiritually based, so beware if that type of thing bothers you. I know the meetings often end with a prayer...

I went for a while with my mom when I was a lot younger, and before that I used to go to Alateen when my parents were at their ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) meetings, so I've been around 12-step stuff since I was little. I found it helpful but I didn't stick with it because it just isn't my style. MFP has been working great for accountability and tracking, and I like private victories, so I'm just not really called to it. I found the meetings a nice place to go and share and also find other people who totally get where you're coming from, though.

The fellowship you gain from being at meetings is totally worth it, especially if that is something you're lacking or feel you're in need of. Also, finding a sponsor and working the steps is a great way to not only get accountable for your habits, but to also forgive yourself for past choices, and OA offers many tools to achieve the MENTAL health that is needed to sustain your physical health and lifestyle changes. I remember my mom saying that one of the best things she ever heard in a meeting was, "I had lost all this weight but I still had a ton of fat between my ears." And that's true for a lot of people, which is why so many struggle to keep up with their diets.

If nothing else, give it a shot and see how you feel. It's a little scary to share in front of people, but you'll find that many people are so supportive and can relate to your story in one way or another. Just having those connections, people you can call when the going gets tough, will really help keep you on track.

Like any self-help/support group, each group will have its own personality. It doesn't cost much to try, why don't you go and see if you like it? Some people do very well with these types of programs. They have a lot of great coping tools to use. It's like AA or NA...somewhat spiritually based, so beware if that type of thing bothers you. I know the meetings often end with a prayer...

It doesn't cost anything, unless you feel like tossing some money in the basket (but it's totally optional). And I do agree that it does have aspects of spirituality, but the "prayers" that are said aren't particularly religious, and are often modified, varying both prayer choice as well as wording depending on the meeting you go to. If you have multiple options, it's definitely good to visit a few different ones at different times, as you might find you prefer one format over another. There are writing meetings, speaker meetings, general (readings/sharing) meetings, so you have a few options. =]