Hi Amicus and WELCOME to SR! What a dear friend you are to BE THERE for your friend, and to go so far as to search online and find this forum! You should be proud of yourself for having such a heart to help your friend.
There is lots of wisdom on this forum, many people who have "been there". There are sure to be people here to have run into your exact situation. Just keep coming back to see the responses to your query.
Meanwhile, my best suggestion is to suggest that your friend come to this forum herself. That way she can get first hand help, suggestions and support. Don't let that discourage you from coming here too.
HUGS to you for being such a wonderful friend!
Tigger