That sucks. I went through something like that 11 years ago or so with Final Fantasy XI. Hopefully he has friends and family to help pull him out of it. I love gaming and could never do without it but I had to realize that I couldn't let it consume my life. Sure, I would rather be getting that next ship instead of working but I wouldn't even have this game and the computer I play it on if not for my job. They go hand in hand.
On a side note this game couldn't have been released at a better time for me. I'm currently a substitute teacher so I get Christmas break. No work until early January!