I suffer from bipolar disorder, which, even though I am being treated, has made it harder to work every day. My Boston employer wants me to resign, but I need the money to live. He is being patient with me, but I dont know how long I can continue to work. What can I do?

A: You are not alone. Mood disorders like yours are among the top ten causes of disability all over the world. Because bipolar disorder is not something you can see, like crippling rheumatism or multiple sclerosis, people tend to question whether you are really disabled.

However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) disability program awarded 11.2% of its total distribution to people like you in 2010. Because you are under a doctor’s care and your employer sees the problems you are having, you should consider applying for SSA Massachusetts disability benefits.

The application form can be found on the SSA disability website. You can download it there and see what is required in the process.

But we also want you to know that a great percentage of first-time applicants are denied SSA disability benefits initially. For that reason, it is a good idea to get help with the application process from someone who understands the complicated and sometimes discouraging system.

The Boston disability lawyers at Keefe Disability Law handle cases like yours every day. Attorney John Keefe provides expert advice and services to clients in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and Rhode Island. Call toll free today at 888-904-6847 to request your free initial consultation.