Hi... a neck dissection causes muscle and tissue damage and therefore scar tissue. Radiation causes a tightening and damage to anything in it's path. I am two years out of rads in two weeks - and I still have tightness on the surgical side - both sides of my neck were radiated, but it's the operative side that is TIGHT... So I know what your hubby is talking about. This is permanent, it may ease in time but the numbness, and tightness will always be there to some degree as far as I know. Acupuncture and physio, and lymphatic massage all help loosen the area up but it requires diligence daily. As for depression... I'm sure there's plenty of advice here. With all the information in the news about antidepressants, I would push him to go to talk to someone first before taking a pill. He may have to come to terms with the loss of what was his NORMAL STATE... his fear of cancer, and all the baggage that comes with it. hugs and best of luck to you both.