Definition – Is the permanent end of menstruation and fertility, defined as occurring 12 months after your last menstrual period. Typically between 45-50 years of age. Synonyms = change of life. I will add on my own behalf “midlife crisis.”
My experience: fatigue, insomnia, hyperactivity, anxiety, racing heart rate. No I do not have hot flashes! 
Remember: We are all unique and have similar symptoms or we may not.
Is there an ending? Yes, according to my friend. She is 68 years old. It usually runs it course for 10 years! Ugh!!!
What has helped me: That this is not a curse and I am not going crazy! This is real and my body is changing. Reminds me of Bob Dylan song “Times are a Changing.” I also will add that accepting this part of my life cycle has been instrumental. Accepting the fact that I no longer had my period was more difficult than I imagined it would be. Who came up with that word period anyways! I would describe it as a death, my fertility was no more. What also has helped in this transition was the use of Estrogen/Progesterone and Testosterone cream. I went to a Holistic Physician and had blood work to see what my levels were. I am so glad I did, I was not meant to suffer :). I began to be more mindful of my diet due to the fact that I was not losing weight. I incorporated more fruits, vegetables, protein and water daily and reduced sugar considerably I also did some research on vitamins and minerals and one thing I kept coming up against is Vit B. Vitamin B is beneficial for fatigue, insomnia, hormonal changes, etc. etc. I also added in Minerals, Potassium, Magnesium and Calcium.
What I have noticed during this transition: Anger motivated me to look at what is really important to me and where do I want to invest my time and energy. A time to exercise my power and truth! I also explored to open up to my feelings instead of stuffing them because I do not want to live the next 30 years in an unhealthy way. I hope you find this information helpful.
Anne LaMantia 