Jealousy is complex because it combines feelings of inadequacy, fear, suspicion, and anger. While this feeling is normal, and everyone has experienced it at some point in their lives, there are instances where it can be dangerous. Here are some reasons jealousy can be harmful if we don’t learn to control it.

1. It can destroy relationships.

Whether platonic, professional, or romantic, jealousy in relationships can be uncomfortable because it combines feelings of inadequacy and confronting the qualities you lack.

For instance, a jealous partner can become excessively suspicious, like monitoring their partner’s online activity, and even isolate them from their friends because their “female friends are prettier.” This instance creates multiple problems like trust issues, eventually harming the relationship unless the jealous person works through it.

2. It can lead to unsavory behavior.

Jealousy is dangerous, especially if the person acts on their negative feelings. Some bad behaviors motivated by jealousy include making harmful remarks, refusing to celebrate a friend’s success, and even harming the person they’re jealous of. All these instances are unsavory because aside from hurting the victim, they can also negatively impact the jealous person’s life.

3. It affects your self-esteem.

Jealousy is dangerous because it affects your self-esteem. Jealousy is the uncomfortable feeling of being forced to face some qualities you lack. For instance, your friend scored a wonderful job opportunity you secretly wanted. While your friend is celebrated for their talent and hard work, you are left to contemplate why you didn’t “deserve” the recognition, which can be a tough pill to swallow.

Tips to fix jealousy issues:

Fortunately, jealousy issues can be addressed through self-reflection or even with the help of a professional therapist! Here are some handy tips for coping with jealousy:

1. Be honest with your insecurities.

Jealousy is uncomfortable because it forces us to confront our inadequacies. One way to face this awkward feeling is, to be honest with your insecurities. List them down and work through each emotion at your own pace. Ask yourself why you’re feeling this way so you can trace back the source of your feelings.

2. Use your jealousy for positive motivation.

Jealousy isn’t always toxic. It can be a great motivator to help you improve and become a better person. By keeping a positive mindset, we can use our temporary jealousy for long-term motivation by listing the qualities we like in that person and trying to adapt those qualities into our lives

3. Remember your value.

Jealousy is blinding because it suspends rational thought and makes us believe we are not good enough. If you ever find yourself experiencing the green-eyed monster, stop immediately! Give yourself some positive affirmations and remember that even if you’re not recognized for your qualities, you still have value as a partner, friend, and employee.

Bottomline: Being jealous occasionally is normal, but if we let our negative emotions dictate our behavior, we risk doing something we regret. Fortunately, jealousy can be treated through self-reflection and compassion for ourselves.

If you need help fixing your jealousy issues, visit a mental health care professional today. Good luck!