Truth About the Green-Eyed Monster

I’ve always been told that jealousy is never a good thing, but over time, I’ve come to the conclusion that a little jealousy never hurt. However, there is a difference between healthy jealousy, and psychotic jealousy – which will make or break your relationship.

According to Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, a recent guest on the Oprah Show, there's nothing wrong with a little jealousy. Boteach says jealousy is a "very important, central emotion to relationships," and added that “jealousy is in fact a natural emotion that everyone feels when they truly care about and love the person they're with.”

However, jealousy can get out of control if it isn’t healthy. Intense, irrational jealousy can put a major strain on your relationship. “When suspicious thoughts begin to enter the mind of an insecure person the green-eyed monster will begin to rear his ugly head,” says Kim Lance, associate publisher of Online Dating Magazine. “You may find yourself questioning your partner’s actions or becoming too needy of your partner’s time and attention. If you don’t discuss your insecurities with your partner, questions may begin to fill your head.”

If you’re always wondering where your partner really is when they have to “work late”, or if you’re concerned that your partner likes their new gorgeous co-worker (from what your partner says) a little too much, your relationship may be in for some serious trouble.

Jealousy reminds us to not take each other for granted. It’s necessary to feel like your partner wants to be with you — if you’re feeling insecure, be sure to talk to them about their feelings for you. Once you realize that your partner truly loves you for you, and that you love and trust them deeply, your jealousy will readjust itself to a normal, healthy level.