Free Anorexics & Bulimics Anonymous (ABA) 12-Step Recovery — Online, Nationwide

Anorexics and Bulimics Anonymous (ABA) is a 12-step fellowship of women and men who share their experience, strength, and hope so they may recover from anorexia and bulimia. Founded in Edmonton in 1993 and now international, ABA distinguishes itself by treating anorexia and bulimia as a disease of the body, mind, and spirit — and applies the abstinence-based 12-step model to the eating disorder behaviors themselves.

What to Expect

One-hour confidential meetings where members share their experience working ABA’s 12 steps adapted for anorexia and bulimia. The only requirement for membership is a desire to recover from anorexia or bulimia. Meetings include readings from ABA literature, member sharing, and group discussion. Unlike EDA (which discourages food rigidity), ABA’s program is structured around abstinence from anorexic and bulimic behaviors with the support of a sponsor.

Meeting Formats

In-person meetings in cities with established ABA communities — particularly in Canada and the western US. Virtual meetings via Zoom and phone available across multiple time zones, including beginners’ meetings and topic-focused groups. The full meeting list is at aba12steps.org.

Who This Is For

People who recognize themselves as struggling with anorexia or bulimia and want a peer-led, abstinence-based 12-step path to recovery. ABA may resonate especially with people who have a history with 12-step programs (AA, NA, OA) and prefer that framework. People who have found EDA or other non-abstinence-based programs to be a better fit are encouraged to use what works.

How ABA Differs From OA and EDA

Overeaters Anonymous (OA) is for compulsive overeating and broadly defined food addiction. EDA is for eating disorder recovery generally, with a balance-over-abstinence philosophy. ABA is specifically for anorexia and bulimia, using a tight abstinence model. Members sometimes attend multiple programs as needed.

How to Join

Drop in to any meeting — no registration, dues, or fees. Find current meetings at aba12steps.org/meetings. ABA’s program literature, including the ABA Big Book, is available through the website.