Oh, snap, someone's trying to hit below the belt. Yes, my hedonistic, independent, confident yet actually self-absorbed and anxiety-filled self is what has led me into an AWESOME marriage with an AWESOME man.
Sounds like there's much more than just the hint of trouble here, and just because life contains obstacles is no reason to dig your claws in when you're clearly in a miserable and failing situation. Families don't get along, she's embarrassed by him, reports that she's put up with lots of BS over 8 years, etc., etc. This is not a normal, healthy relationship.
For some reason I think you're someone I might know.....though maybe not. :D