Maybe this won't work for some people, but for most, especially youngsters (pre-teen and teenagers) gaining the self respect from helping others and actually accomplishing something you can point to later (as in I helped build that house, building, bridge) is far neater than just meds. Additionally, coping skills are learned, and the idea that there is more to your life than yourself is a vital concept in civilized society.
Needless to say, getting to know God is a plus, too, for those who choose the path.
I still haven’t read the whole article, I want to, since the topic interests me. I am convinced that modern methods for treatment mental illness - I don’t mean psychosis, but the kind I think the article describes - don’t help at all. I’ve seen tremendous changes in people (what to speak of myself) from natural methods, and as you note, developing a relationship with God, as most important. Doesn’t mean healing happens in a week. But that road is the best road and leads to the best place.