For Newcomers to Overeaters Anonymous

Newcomers are always welcome at any meeting.

We are very serious about maintaining your and our anonymity. Most OA’s only use their first names in meetings.

We have no dues or fees, We support ourselves through our own voluntary contributions.

The only requirement to become a member of an OA group is a desire to stop eating compulsively.

When you attend your first meetings, let people know you are new to the program. Most groups will have special information for newcomers.

Attend several meetings before you decide if the program is for you. A lot goes on in meetings and it can be a little overwhelming at first.

Attend different meetings. Each group has its own “personality.” It is important to find the meetings in which you are most comfortable.

Meetings have different formats. There are discussion, OA literature study, and speaker meetings. Some are combinations of these types. Your participation, or not, is strictly voluntary.

Try to arrive early and to stay after the meeting to talk with individual members.

Crosstalk (speaking directly to someone or commenting on what someone else has shared) is strongly discouraged during the meeting.

Get telephone numbers and use them.

One compulsive eater helping another helps both in their recovery. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and to ask for help.