This has not been a hypothetical question for me, either. Often the real problem is biochemical, and the only lasting solution involves finding and addressing the underlying issue. And that can be a frustrating quest involving multiple doctors who Don't Get It and extensive self-driven research, exactly what folks in this state don't usually have the ability or will to do.

The right doctor can work wonders for such folks. But they're few and far between, and getting the person to go see the doc can be a big challenge for the concerned friend. Hard stuff.