My husband suffers from bipolar depression, should we be eligible for disability benefits?

The onset was around three years ago, when he lost a long time job of around 13 years. We have always though fought a battle with depression. It just became much worse at this time, and I now have little hope that he will perk up and just go get a job. I've been unable to get him to apply even, because he's sure I think that they'll say no. What are our options? What can a spouse trying to raise two children do in this situation? If he could get on disability, it would help his stress levels so much if he could finally contribute again to our household.