
New Delhi, january 05, 2026: Psychotherapist Trishala Dutt, daughter of Bollywood veteran Sanjay Dutt, has once again used her digital platform to spark a vital conversation around mental health and interpersonal relationships. On January 5, 2026, Trishala shared a poignant and “cryptic” note on her Instagram stories, focusing on the damaging nature of the “silent treatment” as a form of emotional manipulation.
In her latest update, Trishala addressed the psychological tactic where one partner or family member uses silence as a weapon. She emphasized that while communication is the bedrock of any healthy relationship, withdrawing it intentionally to hurt another person is a form of abuse.
Trishala’s note explained that when perspectives don’t match or one person tries to set a boundary, the other may resort to silence to “punish” them. She wrote:
“They are silently ‘teaching’ you that your voice is dangerous, and that speaking up will clearly cost you connection with them.”
She further clarified the thin line between healthy space and toxic manipulation, stating, “Silence that protects your nervous system is self-respect. Silence that punishes someone else is power play.”
As a practicing psychologist in the United States, Trishala often blends her personal experiences with professional insights. Her post reminded her followers that real, loving relationships do not use pain as a pedagogical tool. Instead, she urged that conflicts should be resolved through open dialogue rather than emotional withdrawal.
Interestingly, she also shared her own approach to conflict, highlighting that taking a “time-out” is only healthy if it is communicative. She noted that she often needs a few hours to collect herself to avoid saying something hurtful, but emphasizes that this is a temporary pause meant for self-regulation, not a permanent wall used to alienate the other person.
While Trishala did not name anyone specifically, the post has naturally led to speculation regarding her relationship with her father, Sanjay Dutt. The two have had a complex history, though they have shared many warm public moments in recent years, including heartfelt birthday wishes and family gatherings with Maanayata Dutt and the twins.
Fans and mental health advocates have lauded Trishala for being a “voice for the voiceless,” noting that her perspective as a star kid who has lived away from the limelight provides a unique and grounded take on family dynamics and “image-conscious” parenting.