The Almagest

Issue date: 2/4/10 Section: Life

Just like any other drug, food is something that can become a problem for a lot of people. Not only does the U.S. have the largest percentage of obese people in the world, but many Americans struggle with eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia nervosa. On either end of the spectrum, eating disorders have become a problem for many people and is something we need to address. For overeating, there is help.

Overeater's Anonymous started in the 1960's as a way of letting people share their stories of eating problems.

"It's not what, how much, or when you eat, but how it's affecting you - it's chronic, progressive, and incurable," said Cathy (last name withheld), a recovering anorexic/bulimic. She, along with other members of Overeaters Anonymous in Shreveport, believe it's important to reach the younger people who might suffer from overeating.

"This is one disease that you can end up better from. When you recover, it's like a spiritual high," said Cathy.

Like many other recovery programs, Overeater's Anonymous is based on the premise of the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Addiction, which includes compulsive overeating, is something millions of people are experiencing and is considered to be a physical, mental, and emotional disease.

"Overeater's Anonymous gave me my life back," said Cathy.

On Febuary 20, from 9:30-9p.m., Overeaters Anonymous will be holding a workshop called "Focus on the 4th Step" at the Hamilton/South Caddo Library. The 4th step of the 12-step program involves making a moral inventory of one's self, i.e., looking for the cause and root of the problem. The guest speaker will be Kevin James, a counselor and member of the Louisiana Addictive Disease Regulatory Authority. The workshop would be beneficial for newcomers who might not yet be familiar with the steps.

If you suffer from overeating and struggle with losing weight, dieting, and exercise, the meetings could prove helpful. Overeater's Anonymous has no religious affiliation or orientation, however, the group does focus on spirituality and inner change. The only requirement is the desire to stop compulsive overeating; there are no dues, fees, or weigh-ins.

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