Ep 27 - From Survival to Freedom: Neelu speaks out about Domestic Violence and Life After Divorce

Dr Connie Kerali has a powerful conversation with the remarkable, Neelu, a business coach and single mother of four, about domestic violence, coercive control, financial abuse, and marital rape within a 17-year marriage. Neelu shares growing up in a conservative Muslim family, being pushed toward marriage from her teens, and recognising dysfunction through motherhood and learning healthier parenting. She describes escalating control by her husband and in-laws, neglect during pregnancies, coerced pregnancies, and isolation, alongside family toxicity, stigma around mental health, and being treated as “crazy” after seeking therapy and Prozac for clinical depression. After repeated broken promises, failed couples counselling, and her husband leaving the family while withholding support, Neelu chose divorce and also distanced herself from her own family. She now rebuilds independence, sets boundaries, and uses social media to reduce shame and support other women.01:30 Introducing Neelu06:58 Motherhood Wake Up Call08:10 Unlearning and Boundaries19:45 Engagement Red Flags28:56 Control and Neglect33:37 Marital Rape and Pregnancy40:11 Fourth Pregnancy Turning Point43:40 Job Loss and COVID Return47:57 Back in Kerala Toxic Homes52:13 Depression and Seeking Help01:02:59 Money Control and Neglect01:07:19 Decision to Divorce01:12:33 Healing and Boundaries01:20:00 Happily Divorced Community01:24:40 No Shame and Hope01:29:56 Reclaiming Joy Post DivorceNEELUInstagram: @HappilyDivorced.NeeluUK SUPPORT SERVICESIn an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies or dial 101 (UK only)Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral CentreFind an NHS Talking Therapy service near you or contact your GP surgeryCharities: Mind, The Samaritans, Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, or Victim SupportGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@StoriesWithoutShame on InstagramSign up for the Stories Without Shame newsletter to join the movement.