The We Do Not Care Club (WDNC Club), founded by influencer Melani Sanders, has emerged as a supportive online community for women navigating the complexities of perimenopause and menopause. Launched in May, the club has quickly gained traction, attracting a significant following on social media, including approximately 1.7 million followers on Instagram and around 1 million each on TikTok and Facebook. The WDNC Club encourages women to share what they no longer feel the need to care about, providing a refreshing perspective on this often-challenging phase of life.
Each session begins with Sanders delivering her signature deadpan humor while donning a handwritten club note attached to her attire. Participants are invited to express their frustrations and liberations, ranging from societal expectations like maintaining a youthful appearance to more personal revelations such as “We do not care if our clothes are tight. They fit when we bought them.” This candid sharing has become a rallying cry for women over 50, fostering a sense of sisterhood and empowerment.
The growing popularity of the WDNC Club has led to the formation of similar groups worldwide. Notably, Shelly Horton is establishing a branch in Australia, further expanding the reach of this movement. As the WDNC Club continues to evolve, it highlights an essential dialogue about the experiences of women during menopause.
Despite the club’s positive reception, not everyone agrees with its philosophy. In an article for the Kansas City Star, journalist Yvette Walker presents a contrasting viewpoint, arguing that this stage of life necessitates engagement and concern for various important matters. She states, “I need to care about so many things, some more important than others,” emphasizing the importance of awareness in personal health and societal issues.
Walker’s perspective resonates with many women who find themselves overwhelmed by daily responsibilities and societal pressures. The burden of caring for family, managing health, and staying informed about critical issues can feel heavy, leading to anxiety and stress. Research from the Liptember Foundation indicates that nearly 40% of Australian women experiencing menopause or perimenopause report symptoms of depression or anxiety, highlighting the mental health challenges faced during this time.
The WDNC Club offers a counterbalance to this stress, allowing women to release the need for constant validation and societal compliance. The club encourages members to embrace their individuality and recognize their worth beyond societal expectations. As Horton shared during a recent interview with ABC Radio National, this phase ushers in a time of “menopausal zest,” where women can prioritize self-value over external approval.
The message of the WDNC Club is powerful and timely: women are encouraged to redirect their energy away from unproductive worries and focus on what truly matters to them. This shift in perspective not only alleviates the emotional burden but also fosters a more joyful and intentional approach to life.
As the club continues to grow and inspire change, it serves as a reminder that life after menopause can be vibrant and fulfilling. The camaraderie and shared experiences within the WDNC Club highlight that women can support each other in navigating this journey, transforming the narrative from one of struggle to one of empowerment.
In the words of Groucho Marx, “Life is a whim of several billion cells to be you for a while.” It’s essential to embrace this time with enthusiasm and purpose, shedding the weight of unnecessary worries. The WDNC Club embodies this ethos, encouraging women to celebrate their lives and own their narratives as they move forward with zest and intention.
