‘Bole toh bhi darr, nahi bole toh…’: Sooraj Pancholi on why he stayed silent after ex girlfriend Jiah Khan’s death; cost of self-silencing under pressure

He reflected on moving on from the situation, adding, “It’s done na abhi, it’s done. Why put anybody down?”

While legal matters and media speculation surrounded the case, Sooraj’s statement hints at a deeper, personal conflict that many face in situations of high emotional distress and societal judgement.

Psychological impact prolonged public scrutiny and self-silencing can have on someone dealing with grief 

According to psychologist Rasshi Gurnani, the psychological toll of prolonged public scrutiny—especially when intertwined with grief and serious legal accusations—can be incredibly damaging. “When someone is navigating loss and simultaneously becomes the subject of intense media trials, it doesn’t just challenge their mental health; it can completely dismantle their sense of identity and safety,” she explains. 

In such situations, self-silencing becomes a coping mechanism. The individual might suppress their voice to avoid further judgement or backlash, but in doing so, they bottle up trauma that festers internally. “Suppressing pain and confusion during a crisis like this can lead to long-term issues like anxiety, depression, and even PTSD,” Gurnani adds.

How does fear of judgement and consequences affect a person’s ability to speak up during emotionally charged situations?

Commenting on Sooraj Pancholi’s reflection, Gurnani highlights how fear is critical in silencing people. “Fear of judgment, cancellation, or being misunderstood often paralyzes individuals in emotionally charged moments,” she says. “When you’re young, overwhelmed, and under a microscope, fear can make you believe that any action you take — speaking or staying quiet — will be used against you. That kind of pressure leads to emotional shut-down and isolation.”

Tools and support systems crucial to help process traumatic events and protect mental health

For young individuals dealing with public trauma, Gurnani strongly emphasises the importance of building a supportive ecosystem. “Having access to a non-judgemental therapist, a safe circle of friends or mentors, and learning tools like journaling, meditation, or breathwork can offer tremendous relief,” she says. She also underscores the need for sensitivity and public empathy. “People forget behind every headline is a human being — often a very young one — grappling with more than we can imagine. We need to create spaces that allow people to heal, not push them deeper into silence.”