When you take opiates in large quantities and for a long time the receptorsin your brain actually change shape.Your seretonin and dopamine levels drop off.When you suddenly stop taking the opiates then there is nothing there to fill the receptors and you go into withdrawls.It takes a while for the brain to make enough endorphins to fill these receptors and it also takes time for the seretonin and dopamine levels to return to normal.He may have depression symptoms for up to a year.If he doesn't shake the depression within a month after quitting then he should see his doctor and tell him he's depressed.He could tell the doctor the truth which would be best but alot of times people don't like to tell the doctor that they are an addict.If he's not eating then get him to take a multi-vitamin everyday and keep the fluids in him.Also if he can get out and start walking.Exercise like walking helps promote endorphin growth.It takes time but things will get better.Good luck and hang in there....Dave  |