How common is it for somebody to get bipolar disorder?

Bipolar frequency: You don't catch bipolar disorder like a cold or cancer. You are born with a biologic predisposition and this might manifest at a certain age or be triggered by stress or drug use (incl antidepressants). Stats are 1% of general population but can be as high as 10-30% of individuals who have bipolar parents. Severity can vary greatly and early treatment can be very effective.

Less than 5%: Estimates vary and there are many other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. There are at least 2 different forms of bipolar and some researchers have proposed even more subtypes. Bipolar 1 includes both mania and depression and bipolar 2 is depression with hypo mania only.. The difference between hypo mania and mania is both degree of mood elevation and social consequences.