Mental Health
What to Do When Your Partner Is the Jealous Type
Being jealous is an uncontrollable and completely normal human behavior. However, excessive jealousy can destroy the relationship you and your partner have built. The good news is that there are ways to address this. Here are a few of them.
What to Do When Your Partner is the Jealous Type
1. Communicate
We all have insecurities, and talking about jealousy helps alleviate your partner's anxiety about it. Sociology and intimacy professor Dr. Jacqui Gabb said that understanding the root cause of why your partner feels that way helps both of you decide on possible solutions.
Be honest about answering any questions your partner may have. Keeping your communication lines open will help them understand your life outside your relationship. Remember that you do not need to keep secrets from your partner, especially if you have not done anything wrong.
2. Show affection
Affection is one of the many ways to show love for your partner. After discussing the problems of jealousy with your partner, understand that they have shown vulnerability by opening up to you. Showering them with that extra dose of affection will help them heal faster and let them know that you support them no matter what.
3. Recognize when jealousy becomes abusive
Jealousy in a relationship is normal. However, it may be a red flag when it becomes a repetitive behavior without any basis, coupled with anger and unrealistic expectations. Unfounded accusations that result in jealousy can be harmful, not only to the relationship but to a person's mental health.
If you find yourself frequently defending yourself without anything to hide, this may be a sign of abuse, and you might want to seek professional help or end the relationship.
Join the Conversation