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Journalism of Courage
Addiction often begins as a way to escape emotional pain, but it can quickly turn into a destructive cycle. Sunaina Roshan, actor Hrithik Roshan’s sister, recently opened up about her struggle with alcoholism, describing it as the most challenging phase of her life.
Reflecting on those difficult years in an interview with Siddharth Kannan, she shared, “Alcohol is not a bad thing, but alcoholism is where you do not have control over your drinks. I was going through a very, very difficult time. I was vulnerable emotionally and wanted to numb my senses, so I was drinking. I know that was the worst phase of my life.”
What started as a coping mechanism soon spiraled into a serious addiction, leaving her physically and mentally drained. Sunaina recalled, “I have fallen off beds, injured myself, I had a slip from a chair, and it was a very, very difficult phase. It’s a vicious cycle because you get a high, your brain is numb, and the next day, you experience more anxiety, panic attacks, dehydration — you have no energy to do anything. So you don’t want to get back into a good state, and you start drinking again.”
With her family’s intervention and her own determination, she sought professional help and spent 28 days in a rehabilitation center. But what does it take to truly break free from addiction, and how can loved ones provide the right support?
Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells indianexpress.com, “Alcohol addiction is a vicious cycle—while it provides temporary relief by altering neurotransmitters like dopamine and GABA, long-term use reduces natural production, leading to heightened anxiety when sober. This compels individuals to drink again, reinforcing dependence.”
Breaking this cycle requires a multi-faceted approach. “Professional support through therapy and medical intervention is crucial. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in addressing the underlying emotional triggers and reshaping thought patterns that drive addiction,” says Cadabam.
Sunaina’s parents restricted her financial access and distanced her from enabling friends—an approach that can be effective but isn’t enough on its own.
“Setting firm yet compassionate boundaries can limit access to alcohol and external triggers, but structured support like therapy or rehab is essential for long-term recovery,” explains Cadabam. “Balancing restrictions with emotional support is key. Families should encourage professional help and use resources like Al-Anon for guidance.”
Sunaina chose to seek help and enter rehab — highlighting the power of personal motivation.
“Long-term sobriety is most sustainable when individuals are internally committed to healing,” says Cadabam. “The first step can be as simple as reaching out to a trusted friend or therapist. Rehab and therapy provide structure, but self-awareness, resilience, and a willingness to change are crucial for lasting recovery.”
Encouraging help-seeking without judgment empowers individuals to regain control and build healthier futures.
