TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Communication is crucial in a relationship. However, it often becomes a challenge when one partner gives the silent treatment, deliberately choosing to remain quiet and ignore the other.
Chandni Gaglani, a relationship expert from a dating app in India, highlighted that the silent treatment in a relationship is not an option, and this issue needs to be addressed. "The era of tolerating emotional unavailability has come to an end," she said, as reported by Hindustan Times, on Sunday, December 14, 2025.
According to her, open communication helps to build and regain trust, reducing frustration. "Meaningful relationships thrive on reciprocal support and open dialogue," she added.
If you're unsure how to restore communication with your partner who is giving you the silent treatment, here are tips from Chandni:
1. Prioritize Emotional Maturity over Ego
The silent treatment often stems from ego. The relationship expert emphasized the importance of being emotionally mature. "When your partner withdraws, it's easy to react defensively, but that only deepens the disconnect." In other words, it only intensifies the emotional gap.
She suggested that partners need to create a safe space for dialogue and understanding. However, they shouldn't blame each other as it could exacerbate the problem; instead, they should show empathy. "Approach the conversation from a place of genuine curiosity and a desire to grow, rather than blame."
2. Normalize Therapy
Chandni recommended seeking therapy or communication tools to facilitate conversation. "Instead of treating communication breakdown as a personal failure, frame the issue as: 'I think both of us could benefit from learning better communication skills. What if we explore this together?' Normalizing professional support eliminates stigma."
3. Major Red Flags
Chandni shared that the silent treatment undermines trust. "Sudden emotional changes, such as having a warm partner one day and a completely withdrawn one the next, are exhausting and damaging," she said. This is a major red flag in a relationship.
4. The Importance of Communication
Chandni explained that communication is the universal foundation of a relationship. It's not about talking constantly, but knowing that your partner will be emotionally present when things get tough. The silent treatment shatters this trust.
5. When to Walk Away?
If you've made a sincere effort to open communication with your partner but have failed, Chandni ensured that this is the time to walk away. Repeated silent treatment indicates emotional unavailability. So, if you're consistently ignored, it's better to step away from this avoidance pattern for the sake of your self-esteem.
Read: Is Your Partner Right for You? 7 Green Flags to Look for in a Healthy Relationship
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