EDA - Step 1 [ Eating Disorders Anonymous ]

Resources:
EDA Big Book: http://eatingdisordersanonymous.org/E...
Meetings: http://eatingdisordersanonymous.org/m...
FAQs: http://eatingdisordersanonymous.org/f...

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A brief note on what follows: Please take what you can use and leave the rest. My experience working the Twelve Steps of EDA may not align well with what you have experienced or hope to experience. What I am offering is only a point of reference, not a tutorial or form of instruction. Do not be discouraged. I have always been—and probably always will be—a flawed person. I hope that you will not struggle as I did with what has been correctly described as a “simple program of action.” If, however, you are struggling with the Steps, perhaps you will find something of your own experience in the following recordings. My hope is that you will find courage to keep going, for if I can work the Twelve Steps successfully, surely anyone can do it!

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Eating Disorders Anonymous (EDA) is a fellowship of individuals who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problems and help others to recover from their eating disorders. People can and do fully recover from having an eating disorder. In EDA, we help one another identify and claim milestones of recovery. The only requirement for membership is a desire to recover from an eating disorder. There are no dues or fees for EDA membership. We are self-supporting through our own contributions. EDA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution. EDA does not wish to engage in any controversy. We neither endorse nor oppose any causes.

Our primary purpose is to recover from our eating disorders and to carry this message of recovery to others with eating disorders. In EDA, we try to focus on the solution, not the problem. Solutions have to do with recognizing life choices and making them responsibly. Diets and weight management techniques do not solve our thinking problems. EDA endorses sound nutrition and discourages any form of rigidity around food.

Balance – not abstinence – is our goal.

In EDA, recovery means living without obsessing on food, weight and body image. In our eating disorders, we sometimes felt like helpless victims. Recovery means gaining or regaining the power to see our options, to make careful choices in our lives. Recovery means rebuilding trust with ourselves, a gradual process that requires much motivation and support. As we learn and practice careful self-honesty, self-care and self-expression, we gain authenticity, perspective, peace and empowerment.

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LEGAL INFORMATION: Eating Disorders Anonymous (EDA) and the General Service Board of EDA do not diagnose illnesses or provide medical services. For medical services or therapy related to an eating disorder, you should consult a qualified physician or other health care provider.