New to OA?
You are no longer alone. There is a solution.
If you think you have a problem with food, you are in the right place. Overeaters Anonymous offers a program of recovery for those suffering from compulsive eating, anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders.
The 15 Questions
Are you wondering if you are a compulsive overeater? Answer these questions honestly. If you answer 'yes' to three or more of them, it is likely that you have a compulsive eating problem.
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1
Do I eat when I’m not hungry, or not eat when my body needs nourishment?
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2
Do I go on eating binges for no apparent reason, sometimes eating until I’m stuffed or even feel sick?
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3
Do I have feelings of guilt, shame, or embarrassment about my weight or the way I eat?
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4
Do I eat sensibly in front of others and then make up for it when I am alone?
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5
Is my eating affecting my health or the way I live my life?
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6
When my emotions are intense—whether positive or negative—do I find myself reaching for food?
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7
Do my eating behaviors make me or others unhappy?
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8
Have I ever used laxatives, vomiting, diuretics, excessive exercise, diet pills, shots, or other medical interventions (including surgery) to try to control my weight?
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9
Do I fast or severely restrict my food intake to control my weight?
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10
Do I fantasize about how much better life would be if I were a different size or weight?
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11
Do I need to chew or have something in my mouth all the time: food, gum, mints, candies, or beverages?
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12
Have I ever eaten food that is burned, frozen, or spoiled; from containers in the grocery store; or out of the garbage?
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13
Are there certain foods I can’t stop eating after having the first bite?
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14
Have I lost weight with a diet or “period of control” only to be followed by bouts of uncontrolled eating and/or weight gain?
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15
Do I spend too much time thinking about food, arguing with myself about whether or what to eat, planning the next diet or exercise cure, or counting calories?
Recommended Resources
Here are some essential documents to help you begin your journey:
Where Do I Start? (R-35)
A comprehensive introductory brochure for new members, explaining the program and how to begin.
Download PDF (IOAFM)To the Teen (R-11)
A guide specifically designed for young people questioning their relationship with food.
Download PDF (IOAFM)Your First Meeting
Access to meetings is open and free. You go there directly, without an appointment. You will find welcome, acceptance, and support. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively.