Relationship Truth: Unfiltered

When Loving Him Hurts: Navigating Neurodivergence, Abuse, and Ministry Expectations

Mar 24, 2025
In a heartfelt conversation, life coach and neurodiversity advocate Jenilee Goodwin shares her journey from an emotionally destructive marriage to empowerment. She discusses the struggle of discerning between neurodivergent behaviors and emotional abuse, emphasizing the need for self-care and boundaries. Jenilee recounts her role as a pastor's wife, navigating the complexities of faith and motherhood while managing her husband's ADHD. Her story inspires listeners to reclaim their personal agency and listen to divine guidance amidst challenging relationships.
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ANECDOTE

Bearing The Invisible Ministry Load

  • Jenilee carried almost all ministry, homeschooling, and mission responsibilities because her husband had executive function deficits and she felt she could 'do it better.'
  • The workload piled into burnout and physical illness until she could no longer continue alone.
INSIGHT

Truth Reveals Covert Harm

  • Reading about emotionally destructive relationships and covert abuse clarified behaviors she had normalized for years.
  • Being honest with herself and others opened the door to external validation and a new understanding of her marriage.
ADVICE

Stop Enabling Through Boundaries

  • Set clear boundaries and say no to carrying the emotional and practical load alone; behavior often changes when you stop enabling it.
  • Use honest assessments or counseling to validate your experience and compel accountability.
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