To clarify, Jackrose - I really wasn't trying to have a go at you! Sorry if it came across that way! I totally agree with you and thought you worded your post well and was just extending my thoughts from yours
Liz, I understand the alternative med scepticism - I'm sure there are lots of people who feel the same way. FWIW I think it'd be good to encourage him to keep an open mind about it, particularly if you guys are keen to avoid Western med drugs. (Depending on your care provider/s these can be encouraged very strongly, which I think is appalling but it certainly happens.) If you're confident that there are other alternatives besides drugs (e.g. meditation, visualisation etc) then you (or he on your behalf) can be more assertive about doing without the 'hard' stuff. All the best, anyway.