I know it really hurts that he did this but he is obviously giving out a cry for help here. Were you snooping through his phone in the first place? If so, it doesn't sound like you really trusted him in the first place.

Bottom line EVERYBODY needs to feel attractive and sexy and loved. Granted, this wasn't exactly a healthy way to express that but he obviously wants some more attention from you. My bf is getting his masters and working on his thesis and I will graduate in May. He is looking for jobs right now and I am trying to figure out financial aid and looking for a house etc... but we still make it a priority to sometimes just stop what we're doing and give the other person a hug or a kiss.

It doesn't even have to be physical attention. Maybe, since you work opposite shifts, leave him a note to find when he gets home. Get him a card. Anything to show you care. Relationships are a lot of work and you can't really expect him to sit back and not get any affection or attention and just be okay with that. Sounds like you guys need to make some time for each other.