B.,
Yes, you are going through perimenopause. There is nothing "peri" about it, I am sure men must have come up with this name. You are getting some excellent advice from so many. So rather than go through all of my experiences with it, I would recommend some things to get you through it: 1) Don't be afraid to get a second opinion on your options for getting through this without losing your mind. 2)If you have a mate, constantly keep your communication lines open. Do not be afraid to share this with them. They will have more patience with you if you keep them in the loop. 3)Different things will work at different times as you move through this time in your life. Try different remedies, when one stops working or doesn't work at all, try another. 4)Read as much as you can on the subject, being informed, and educated on the matter helps a lot. You feel empowered. 5)If you bite off someone's head that you love; such as your husband's, friends, parents, siblings, coworkers, total strangers,and your children that you love so much, DON'T be afraid to apologize, they will forgive you. 6)Form a support group,a good friend, sista, and/or keep writing on Mamasource, whatever it takes to keep you sane. 7)EXERCISE! Great relief. 8)SEX. Better relief! 9)Do something for yourself, whatever that may be. Walking on the beach, reading a book, watching a movie, playing with your kids, cooking, exercising, shopping, doing crossword puzzles, sudoku, take a luxurious bath with candlelight, etc. You get the idea. 10)Last, but not least, nurture the Spiritual side of you. Sometimes we forget this part, and it is very important in making us a complete person.
(I feel like this is a top 10 list)
YOU WILL SURVIVE THIS AND BE READY FOR MENOPAUSE...and that is another story for another time.
Hope this helps. Oh yes, Laugh long and hard, you'll need that sense of humor.
E.:)