withdrawl symptoms and depression

My other half has finally come to the realization that he is an addict to narcotics.  It was bad. So bad that no one can figure out how it is that he is alive.  He does have underlying health problems, ie, severe orthopedic deficiencies so he was put on narcs to control he pain but he became severely addicted.  He overdosed heavily and often, too many problems to state at the moment.  He is detoxed by now but there are some major depressive issues.  He is lost from himself, doesn't know what to do.  I have been the only support of the family for almost 6 years now, and he no longer can do what he used to do for a living.  He went to school and earned a CDL.  However, we have no money for him to go on the road with, at least that is the excuse he is using for not getting a job.  Anyway, does the depression last or is it just a part of the withdrawl (withdrawal)?

[atthebeach]

hi and welcome to MH. how long ago did he stop using? it does take a few months for the mind,body,emotions,soul and spirit to heal after drug abuse. it is important for him to move around to exercise, it he lays around it becomes worse. the activity will help his natural "feel good" endrophins to begin to produce again..they are suppressed during drug use. it would be best for him to get a job and to be busy. this will help with his recovery and the depression. he needs to eat healthy and take vitamins. has he gotten any aftercare to help prevent relapse. counseling with therapist,psychologist,addiction specialist,attend church, counsel with a pastor, na/aa, support groups?
praying for you and him both,
debbie