The movie Aashiqui 2 portrays the main character Rahul Jaykar, who was struggling with severe alcohol dependence, which led to a severe negative impact on his health, career and on his relationship. As time passes, his career falls apart, and his loving person (Girlfriend) Aarohi’s career rises. This leads him to clinical depression. Aarohi tries to help her partner through her own means, like changing the atmosphere, counselling through friends and family, but never seeks any professional help.
As per the diagnostic guidelines of dependence syndrome in ICD-11, i.e. alcohol dependence, current use, continuous 6C40.20, he fulfilled all the criteria of dependence. He started using alcohol for recreational use/under peer pressure. Gradually, tolerance develops, and he starts consuming it even during his working hours. His interests in other activities are completely lost. Meanwhile, his irritability increases, and his frustration tolerance decreases. As a ray of hope, his girlfriend and family members make him realise the harmful effects of alcohol. He must have been in the stage of contemplation when, during a night party, he was unable to resist alcohol due to a strong craving. This results in a conflict with his girlfriend, and it turns into violence. In the background of ongoing interpersonal conflicts, his confidence completely shatters, and he develops depressive cognitions.
Many studies have shown that the prevalence of depression among people with alcohol dependence is high. Similar results were portrayed in the movie as well. As the lead character does not get professional help, he ultimately faces the massive toll of depression. He has a persistently low mood, decreased interest in doing work, and a feeling of guilt. His sleep gets disturbed. His appetite was inadequate. In the background of his ongoing mental health issues and the interplay of various psychosocial factors, he ended his life by suicide.
This ending could have been different had they consulted a psychiatrist. Benzodiazepines, anti-craving drugs and antidepressants can play an important role in quitting alcohol and associated depression. This movie could become a useful tool of mental health awareness nationwide by bridging the gap between illness and treatment with the means of pharmacological & non-pharmacological interventions.
Dr. Nikita Maan
SR Psychiatry
LLRM Medical College Meerut
