News Release

Comedian uses laughter to address eating disorders

February 17, 2009

Eating disorders are usually not a laughing matter.

But veteran comedian Michelle Garb, drawing from her 15-year battle with anorexia, uses wit and humor to educate audiences across the nation to the dangers and warning signs of disorders.

Garb brings her performance to Penn State Harrisburg Thursday, Feb. 26 at 12:30 p.m. The presentation is free and open to the public in the Gallery Lounge of the Olmsted Building. For information, phone 717-948-6273.

A performer on the college circuit for more than 12 years, Garb created her “Fat Brain/Skinny Body” lecture on disorder awareness and positive self-image as a result of her struggle.  She is still active in her recovery and in addition to speaking on the subject, she is in the process of forming "Edith Eats," a non-profit eating disorder organization which has recently gained support and funding through the NCAA.

Garb has received positive reviews from the National Eating Disorder Association and has been a presenter at many conventions on the topic. And since she has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, she realizes that there is another avenue to educate.

As a professional comedian, she works all the major clubs in New York City and Los Angeles and appeared on the Chris Rock Show. “With the right amount of humor, mental disorders don’t have to be scary,” Garb says. “Taking a comedic approach to this difficult subject creates a comfortable atmosphere where students are more apt to listen and understand. By taking the stigma out of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders, and bipolar, people suffering from these disorders are more likely to recognize they have a problem and get help.”