Kara David Opens Up About Her Bipolar Disorder And The Habits That Work For Her

Veteran journalist and documentarist Kara David has worn many hats throughout her career. We've seen her fearless reporting on I-Witness, her fun and relatable personality in her online videos, and her dedication as a professor at her alma mater, the University of the Philippines.

But during her recent guesting on Fast Talk With Boy Abunda, Kara opened up about another part of her life that she doesn't shy away from talking about: living with bipolar disorder.

"Ako lagi ko 'tong sinasabi Tito Boy na yung bipolar, while it's called bipolar disorder, if you learn to accept it and you learn to seek the right help, it's a gift. It's not a curse," she said. "It's a disorder pero in my case dahil natuto akong yakapin yung aking condition at humingi ng tulong... I actually view it as a gift, it's my superpower."

For Kara, Cosmopolitan Philippines Women Of Influence 2026 awardee, that perspective came from years of understanding her condition and learning how to manage it. During the interview, she explained that bipolar disorder can involve both manic and depressive episodes. For Kara, learning to understand her condition, seek professional help, and manage her symptoms has helped her recognize and make the most of her strengths.

She emphasized that these effects are something she experiences when her symptoms are properly managed. "You have phase na manic na manic ka, ta's meron kang phase na depressive ka. Yung manic na manic ka, that's the time na you're super creative, super bilis mag-isip, ang lakas ng loob mo, all those things, pag managed well," she explained.

Writing has always been a huge part of Kara's career, and she said she has noticed how those moments can affect her creative process. "Ako actually, kapag nandun ako sa point na medyo mataas, ambilis ko mag-isip. Ambilis ko magsulat ng script. I'm [bolder], mas malakas ang loob kong gumawa ng mga bagay-bagay."

At the same time, Kara was quick to remind viewers that managing bipolar disorder isn't something anyone should do alone. "You can't do it alone. Sana 'yung community hindi kami tinitignan as 'baliw,' 'loka-loka,' 'krung-krung,” she said. "Kasi kung matututo kang tanggapin yung condition mo, you can make it work for you, not against you."

In 2007, Kara was officially diagnosed with bipolar disorder, though she said she had long suspected she had the condition since she was in high school. Opening up about her diagnosis wasn't always easy, though. In an earlier interview, Kara admitted that she initially felt ashamed and tried to hide it from others. "I used to hide whenever I went to the clinic to be diagnosed," she recalled. "I would wear a cap, worried that if someone saw me, I'd be labeled a lunatic."

But in 2019, she decided to speak publicly about her experience in the hopes of helping others going through the same thing. Alongside professional care, Kara has also found that staying active helps support her mental well-being and gives her a routine she can rely on. She's often talked about chasing what she calls "natural endorphins," whether through exercise, hobbies, or simply staying active. But her favorites: running, biking, and swimming. The key, however, is staying committed to these routines despite the busy schedule.

During a 2023 guesting on the podcast Updated with Nelson Canlas, she shared how sports became one of the biggest tools in helping her take care of her mental health.

"Matagal ko na 'yong alam na I have bipolar disorder. And kapag meron kang ganung klaseng kondisyon, 'yong manic depressive, one way para, hindi naman ma-cure, pero mamanage mo 'yong iyong mental health issues mo ay to go into sports." Kara has since been regularly joining marathons and triathlons, often sharing her milestones and personal achievements online.

She also revealed that one of the biggest lessons she's learned is finding balance. When she notices signs that her manic symptoms are becoming more intense, she intentionally slows herself down. "Pag may mga signs ako na masyadong nagshu-shoot up na yung mania, meron akong mga kinakain, iniinom, ginagawa para bumaba siya nang konti," she shared. Among the things she mentioned are chocolates, green leafy vegetables like cabbage, and citrus fruits.

Today, Kara continues to advocate for mental health awareness while staying committed to the routines that help her feel her best.