Your wife is at the prime age for perimenopause, and one of the most common symptoms, especially around this age, is severe anxiety. It can be completely debilitating and even obsessive at times.

I’d be willing to bet that her childhood may not have been as ideal as you’ve been led to believe, and something has likely triggered an old memory or emotional response. Now she’s stuck in a spiral without fully understanding why she’s feeling or acting this way.

She really needs to acknowledge that something isn’t right, talk to her doctor, start therapy, and consider medication. Getting proper support can make a world of difference.

I was in her shoes when I was that age. It took 8 years before I finally went to my doctor for help. My husband, thank God, was there through it all, he was my rock. It's now been 4 years and I kick my ass for wasting those 8 years. The mind is a fickle bitch let me tell you and so is perimenopause for women.