Mental part

I have had an addiction to oxycodone/hydrocodone for 3 yrs.  I know all about the mental and physical part of withdrawal.  The physical is something I can handle but when the mental starts I feel like I am having a nervous breakdown.  Worst feeling in the world to me.  How long does this anxiety/depression last?  I can take up to 40 oxy or hydro or combo pills a day so my addiction is pretty severe.  I have had family and friends know about my past problems but they think I am clean and I want to keep it that way until I really am.  I have had treatment for depression in the past and antidepressants are not an option for me.  When I am not too lazy I can run and exercise.  I was running about 5 miles at the time when I was clean awhile back and started back on the pills and quit.  I know that the exercise will help.  I guess what I am really after hear is encouragement. I don't want to tell my family and break their hearts again.

[IBKleen]

This is a hard question to answer. Some never suffer with the depression/anxiety and some have it for the rest of their lives. There are many factors involved.

Why are antidepressants not an option? It sounds like you would be a perfect candidate.

At some point you will have to make a decision to stop taking the pain medication. the longer you stay on it, the longer it changes your brain chemistry and the worst the anxiety will be. It is a roller coaster ride.

Have you ever tried therapy?