A Guy's Guide to Menopause

4. Know when it's serious. If your partner has withdrawn from her usual activities and seems extremely miserable, urge her to see a doctor. Depression can be a seriously debilitating condition and might not get better without intervention. You need to be at her back if she can no longer see reality and needs some medical attention.

5. Seek help if you need it. If your wife's menopause is making you overly angry or exasperated, you might benefit from some professional help, too. Ask your doctor, clergy or trusted friend to recommend a support group or a therapist who is acquainted with these kinds of issues. Sometimes just talking things out can be helpful, and a wise therapist can offer good advice on how you can make yourself and the woman in your life feel better.

6. Stay optimistic. Remember, this too will pass. You will get your partner back. She will want to have sex again. She'll turn the air conditioner back to a reasonable setting. Meanwhile, try to be patient, helpful, supportive and thoughtful. She would do the same for you. If you are exasperated or angry, go get some help.

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