Ohh, I'm late to this, sorry.
Your friend is looking for pity, not help, in my opinion. I remember reading an article written by someone who had volunteered with The Samaritans, or a similar organisation. First call, gambler, the volunteer started advising about groups that can help, different resources - but wasn't really listening to the gambler who needed to talk, to unload, and be listened to.
I read a book some years ago when my DS was small, titled How to talk so kids will listen - and listen so kids will talk, brilliant book. Instead of saying "right, you need to do this thing, or contact this organisation", try - "that sounds awful, how does that make you feel". "What a horrible situation for you, what do you think you could do about it". Put the power back to your friend.
Just a suggestion.