It’s not unusual for couples to face bouts of jealousy or envy at various stages in their relationship. After all, these are emotions that, to some degree, everyone experiences at some point in their life.

But when one’s partner becomes consistently envious or jealous, it can become a potent stressor that threatens the stability of the relationship. Understanding and addressing these emotions is crucial, both for the emotional health of the individual and the health of the relationship.

Recognise the signs

Before anything else, it’s important to recognise the signs. They might manifest subtly: passive-aggressive comments, unexpected moods, or increased insecurity. Or they might be more overt: accusatory questions, demands for constant updates, or overt anger. Recognising these signs is the first step towards understanding and resolving the underlying issue.

Communicate openly

Once you’ve identified jealousy or envy, the next step is opening a line of communication. Choose a time when you’re both relaxed, free of distractions, and emotionally available. Then, broach the subject gently, expressing concern and care. It’s essential to approach the conversation with empathy, steering clear of blame.

Understand the underlying issues

Jealousy and envy rarely come out of nowhere. Often, they’re symptoms of deeper insecurities, past traumas, or fears. By understanding these root causes, couples can address the real problem rather than its surface manifestations. This might involve individual reflection or, in many cases, joint counselling.

Reassure and validate

Feelings of jealousy often stem from insecurity. Regularly reassuring your partner of your love, commitment, and appreciation can be powerful in alleviating these feelings. Simple gestures like leaving a loving note, sending a surprise message, or even just verbally affirming your feelings can work wonders.

Set boundaries

If your partner’s jealousy or envy translates into controlling behaviour, it’s vital to set clear boundaries. This might mean discussing social media activity, reiterating your need for personal space, or even setting limits on questioning. While it’s essential to be understanding, it’s equally crucial to ensure that the relationship remains respectful and balanced.

Seek counselling

If jealousy or envy continues to persist or escalates, professional counselling might be beneficial. A qualified therapist can offer tools, strategies, and insights to help both partners navigate these challenging emotions. Couple’s therapy, in particular, can be a space where both parties learn to express their feelings constructively.

Nurture the relationship

Investing time and effort into the relationship can often alleviate feelings of jealousy and envy. This might mean setting regular date nights, trying new activities together, or simply spending quality time together. When both partners feel valued and connected, the space for negative emotions diminishes.

Work on individual growth

Sometimes, jealousy stems from personal dissatisfaction or feelings of inadequacy. Encouraging your partner to pursue personal hobbies, set individual goals, or even just engage in self-care can help alleviate these feelings. When both partners feel fulfilled individually, they’re less likely to harbour negative emotions towards each other.

Takeaway

Jealousy and envy, when left unchecked, can undermine even the strongest of relationships. However, with understanding, communication, and proactive measures, it’s possible to navigate these emotions and strengthen the bond between partners. It’s essential to remember that every couple faces challenges; what sets successful couples apart is how they approach and overcome them.

Marcus Kingsley is a relationship expert, advocate for emotional intelligence, and a fervent believer in the power of communication