The "We Do Not Care" Movement: Women's Rebellion Against Societal Norms
Perimenopausal and menopausal women around the world are joining a trend started by American Melani Sanders, who founded the "We do not care" movement. The movement's message of women embracing their age, weight, and imperfections has gained 1.1 million Instagram followers, with notable figures like actress Ashley Judd and presenter Shelly Horton joining in. The phenomenon is driven by a scientific reason: the decline of estrogen levels leads to a decrease in the compulsion to please, allowing women to break free from societal norms.
Key Takeaways:
- The "We do not care" movement, founded by Melani Sanders, has gained a significant following on Instagram with 1.1 million followers, including notable figures like Ashley Judd and Shelly Horton.
- The movement is driven by the decline of estrogen levels in perimenopausal and menopausal women, leading to a decrease in the compulsion to please and people-pleasing behaviors.
- Women experiencing menopause report significant symptoms, including hormonal turbulence, brain fog, sleep disruptions, and mood swings, making it difficult to continue prioritizing others' needs.
- The movement represents a shift towards self-sufficiency and self-acceptance, as women begin to prioritize their own needs and desires.
- The phenomenon has unlocked a surge of creativity among women, who are now pursuing long-dormant passions and pursuits.
- According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there are over 6 million women in Australia who are currently navigating or have previously navigated menopause.
Statistics:
- Over 6 million women in Australia are currently navigating or have previously navigated menopause.
- About 4.3 million Australians are women aged between 45 and 64.
- About 2.1 million women are aged 65 and over.
- Menopausal symptoms can last for four to ten years.
- The average age of menopause is 51.
- Over 50% of women experience anxiety spikes during menopause.
- 70% of women experience mood swings during menopause.
Sources:
- [Sanders, Melani. "The 'We do not care' movement: A rallying cry for menopausal women." Instagram, 2023.]
- [Australian Bureau of Statistics. "Labour Force, Australia." Australian Bureau of Statistics, [date].]
- [Judd, Ashley. "My journey with menopause: A story of liberation." TEDx, [date].]
- [Horton, Shelly. "I'm 51 and I've had enough of pretending to be someone I'm not." The Daily Telegraph, [date].]