According to Epstein, taking just a few minutes to identify your specific emotions (and why you’re feeling them) allows you to view your jealousy more objectively. That way, you’re less likely to immediately blame, scold or judge your partner based on a fleeting suspicion. This exercise can also interrupt the cycle of catastrophic thinking (What if they leave me for their ex???) and help you reflect on whether your feelings of jealousy stem from your partner’s actions or your own underlying issues—like low self-esteem or a fear of abandonment lingering from your last breakup.
2. Fact-check your suspicions
It’s easy to jump to conclusions and spiral into worst-case scenarios when unhealthy jealousy hijacks your thoughts. They’re always texting someone…it must be their ex. They laughed at their friend’s joke but not mine…maybe they’re not into me anymore.
But remember, these assumptions aren’t facts: “This is a story your jealousy is telling you,” says Alex Ly,…