Always Thinking Any Love Interest Is Cheating

After being cheated on a few times already I am always in fear of the person I'm talking to sleeping with other people, sending them pictures, getting hickeys, etc. Like to the point where they could be going to a party and I'm terrified that they're gonna be with someone else. I don't think I'll be able to be in a healthy relationship while I'm like this. How do you get over this and let the past die?

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Stark Best Comment

I struggled with this a lot after being cheated on. It’s an awful betrayal that has lasting affects on more than just trust, but also on your self esteem and confidence.

For me, it took time to heal that wound a little rather than just jumping into something I wasn’t ready for. I also had to come to the realization that whatever past/history I have is not my current partner’s fault and it’s not fair to blame them for those issues or treat them as if they are doing the same as previous partners when they haven’t proven to do so simply because I have trust issues. You have to learn to trust again, but take baby steps and don’t force yourself into situations you’re not ready for. Treat your partner as an independent person because they are and not your property and give them the opportunity to prove you wrong before making your negative thoughts a reality for them. Be vulnerable with your partner, express to them the pain and past you’ve experienced, when you’re not open with them it’s hard for them to understand and be supportive in the way you need. Compromising with your partner is a good baby step to working towards trust. When they’re out you could always ask them to send a text to check in. It doesn’t have to be excessive or all night, but just a sign to let you know they’re still thinking of you and a small step to you feeling more secure as well as having your needs met and your partner still being able to go out and be trusted.