Navigating Misunderstandings: Perimenopause and the Challenges of Communication

A woman in perimenopause is frustrated by male friends and co-workers who dismiss her symptoms. She seeks advice on how to address their invalidation of her experiences. The columnist suggests responding with patience and offering to share information to increase awareness. The importance of discussing accommodations with employers and exploring treatment options is emphasized. In other questions, the columnist advises a coffee shop regular to pay for their drinks and tip generously, encourages a spouse to communicate about cleaning expectations, and suggests considering the response of a longtime friend before addressing a hurtful comment.