medication

Well, seeing as I was one to have to deal with such things...(depression more specifically) It truly depends on the person, and what side effects they have. If they are a danger to themselves, then perhaps it is the right course of action. But again, that all depends on the side effects. Some people lose all form of emotion, or they lose a part of themselves. Others get physical side effects, that may prove worse than actually just dealing with the depression/illness itself. What I would suggest is trying to avoid medication for as long as possible. If it's a case of depression, be a friend to the person, be their shoulder to cry on, and try your damn best to understand them. They are dealing with their own mind, and it turns everything and everyone against them. It's one of the most horrible things one can experience. You simply need to balance out the pros and cons yourself. If one feels that they need it, they should try it, and then decide what is best for them. Some people deal with side effects better than others. It all depends on who is affected. Some people might not mind a physical change, others might not care for lacking emotion, as their pain is gone. If you want to read up a bit on it, pick up Prozac Nation by Elizabeth Wurtzel. That gives you an idea of what it's like, and you can derive your own conclusions from it. If you don't have the time, nor the willpower to read it, at least read the introduction, and the first chapter. They present a case of mental affliction from the eyes of the afflicted, and being one that has been in that situation, I can tell you it's quite correct.