Hi Im trying to get feedback and suggestions on the 12 step group Over-eaters Anonymous. I'm thinking about attending OA for long term therapeutic help with food management. Thanks.

I think it is very helpful. The people are very welcoming.

Certainly no harm in trying it. What have you got to lose? In the long run, it's WHATEVER WORKS FOR YOU. We all know we have food issues, and that they're long term regardless what surgery we have. Best wishes!

I think it's a great idea! My best friend goes to OA and its been very helpful for her. It will help you tackle your food issues and make a plan, plus meet supportive people. Everyone chooses their own plan of abstinence, for some it's 3 meals no snacks, for some it's no sugar, for others it's no white flour or sugar. My friend has a sponsor and that helps her a lot. Best of luck!

Okay looks like I will be attending OA. I am also implementing an exercise program with a gym in January. I already exercise by walking but Im going to step up my program. Someone told me that overeating can be a mental disease like any other substances being abused. So I think mentally its a great help to attend OA.

<p>Okay looks like I will be attending OA. I am also implementing an exercise program with a gym in January. I already exercise by walking but Im going to step up my program. Someone told me that overeating can be a mental disease like any other substances being abused. So I think mentally its a great help to attend OA.</p>

Good for you. Yes it is definitely a disease and OA uses a 12 step approach of treatment, modeled after AA which has proven success.

^{For what it is worth...}

^{My Mom was in OA years ago. She had bariatric surgery 30 year ago lost 140 and started to gain some back so she joined OA to help her through her head issues. Her sponsor became a life-long friend. I know it helped her immensely. I tried it but it tended to be 90% females and I was not comfortable with that at the time.}

^{Post surgery I may join too as our hunger/head issues are the same whether we try to lose without surgery or with surgery.}

I think having a support group is a great idea. Having had surgery in Mexico myself, the only support I have is at VST. I was thinking myself of going to W.W. to have support and be accountable to someone other than just myself.

I've been food journaling.