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Social media is in splits once again, and this time it's over a trend involving a plush toy: the LABUBU doll. Started as a quirky, “ugly‑cute” collectable from Pop Mart, this toy quickly became a must-have accessory for many. Be it as a bag charm or as a plaything, LABUBU exploded across social media feeds, but it wasn’t just about nostalgia or fandom. The phenomenon intensified the pressure to “keep up” and left many feeling like impostors in a trend‑obsessed world.
To understand how this trend can lead to feelings of inadequacy or impostor syndrome, OnlyMyHealth spoke exclusively with Dr Preeti Sharma, Consultant Psychiatrist at Apollo Hospitals, Lucknow, to gain insights.
Why Do Viral Trends Like the LABUBU Craze Trigger Imposter Syndrome? ![impostor syndrome]()
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According to Dr Preeti, “Viral trends like LABUBU, even though it’s just a doll, can spark deep emotional reactions in some people. Because, like, it may unintentionally create a sense of I'm missing out! Or FOMO ( which is fear of missing out in Gen Z language ). People who are constantly exposed to such trends, when they do not engage they may start questioning their social identity and relevance.”
“Moreover, in those who are already vulnerable, this can trigger impostor syndrome, which means the feeling of not being good enough or not fitting in. They may feel like outsiders in a digital world that rewards participation and visibility,” added Dr Preeti.
What Psychological Factors Make Certain People Feel “Left Out” or “Not Enough” Online?
People who often feel “left out” or “not enough” online usually have a mix of psychological vulnerabilities and personality traits that make them more sensitive to social media. Psychologically, those with low self-esteem, social anxiety, or a strong need for approval may compare themselves to others and feel like they don’t measure up.
As per Dr Sharma, “Past experiences like bullying, rejection, or emotional neglect can also increase this sensitivity. To add on here, I believe personality also plays a big role. People who are introverted, anxious, or dependent personalities they always seeking validation and may take online likes and comments very seriously.”
Dr Sharma explains, “For them, social media can feel like a place where they’re constantly being judged and not being noticed can feel like personal rejection. So both our inner emotional patterns and our personality styles influence how we respond to the digital w
Engaging in Internet Trends Becomes a Way to Seek Validation or Cope with Deeper Insecurities, Says Dr Sharma
Following viral trends becomes a way to feel seen, valued, or even loved, especially when offline life feels dull or isolating. Likes, views and comments offer a quick dopamine hit, which can temporarily lift mood, but it also reinforces external validation dependence.
“I have seen individuals participate in trends that do not even align with their personality simply because they believe it might make them more likeable or help them grow their following. Over time, this can become a fragile coping mechanism for deeper insecurities or emotional emptiness,” shared Dr Sharma.
How to Avoid the Feeling of FOMO?
Meaningful strategies to follow for a mindful online interaction, suggested by Dr Preeti:
Pause and Reflect: Ask yourself, “Am I doing this for fun, or to fit in?”
Limit Screen Time: Create boundaries around social media use to reduce passive scrolling.
Follow Consciously: Curate your feed to include content that aligns with your values, not just what’s trending.
Stay Grounded Offline: Build real-life connections and engage in hobbies or work that give you purpose beyond the screen.
Seek Help When Needed: If social media starts affecting your mood, sleep, or self-esteem, talk to a mental health professional. The digital world shouldn’t define your self-worth.
Conclusion: Choose Joy of Missing Out (JOMO)![JOMO]()
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The world revolving around social media and the incessant need to share everything online can lead to a feeling of overwhelm. While it is impossible to completely cease the use of social media, we can be mindful of it. Posting or not, we should always keep a check on what we are buying as a necessity and what as a mere materialistic instinct to fit into society. Moreover, it is also important to mark your worth without the impending doom of giving in to every trend just to stay afloat on the internet. It's the time to JOMO!