Is Collecting Labubu Dolls a Mental Disorder?
- Admin
- Jun 9
- 5 min read
When passion turns into obsession—how to tell the difference.
Even those working here at Palm Tree Psychiatry are not immune to the latest trends. My wife, fashion conscious in her own regard, had shown me one photo of a Labubu doll. And I asked myself "What IS that thing?" And down the rabbit hole I went.
In brief, these cute & horrific (emphasis on both) toys have absolutely been a monster in the world of fashion, culture, and the bag keychain market - it's a thing. If you're like me, and need a primer- here is a condensed summary: Labubu is a character series created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, inspired by Nordic folklore and first introduced in his 2015 picture book series, The Monsters. Labubu is usually drawn / depicted as an elf-like creature with wide eyes, pointed ears, and a mischievous grin showcasing nine sharp teeth. In 2019, Lung collaborated with Chinese toy company Pop Mart to produce Labubu dolls, which are sold in "blind boxes," adding an element of surprise to each purchase.
In the present day, endorsement from a variety of celebrities have led to them being sold out across the world after being labeled the new "it" collectible. Move over, Pokemon trading cards. For those old enough, this may bring up memories of Beanie Babies, Tickle Me Elmo, or other sought-after collectibles that have surely stood the test of time and financial value. But history notwithstanding, lines have sprung up across the country at physical stores, and drops across online retailers on PopMart and TikTok have resulted in dozens of website crashes.
As a double board-certified psychiatrist working in Boca Raton, FL and Jupiter, FL, I get asked a variety of questions. Some are incredibly thought provoking, some are a little more silly, and most often, somewhere in the middle. But one that I have seen with many permutations over the years is "Is *insert trend or video game* an addiction?
It's a good question, and ultimately boils down the way an individual functions. Collecting toys or collectibles is not necessary a mental disorder. It can be quite the healthy outlet for many people, allowing them to reconnect with portions of their childhood, can be a form of fun stress relief, or even a connection to a social community. But like any passion, it can become problematic if it starts interfering with your wellbeing or daily life.
So, how do you know when a hobby crosses the line?
*Signs of a Healthy Collection
Healthy collections usually fit parameters under which we determine that it's "healthy", i.e. not pathological or problematic. More specifically:
It brings joy, relaxation, or allows you to creatively express yourself
It’s integrated into your life without disrupting responsibilities
You can set reasonable limits—financially, emotionally, and physically
It serves as a positive coping tool during stressful times
You can enjoy it without guilt or secrecy
Collecting Labubus can be grounding, playful, and even therapeutic. I often talk with patients about the importance of enjoying life, and treating oneself! So at first glance, I don't see the figure on the shelf as a problem...
*Signs Your Collection May Be Unhealthy
As with any hobby or pastime, there is always the risk that it can venture into territory that's less endearing. Some signs and symptoms to look out for:
Financial Strain
-Are you spending more money than you expected to?
-Are you hiding your packages and purchases from your family and/or significant others?
-Are your purchases getting in the way of paying your rent, buying groceries.
Preoccupations or Obsessive Thoughts
- Are you constantly refreshing the webpage, or browsing blogs / forums / subreddits
looking for the newest information?
- Waking up at odd hours of the night to refresh pages? Sleep is important, and you shouldn't have to stay up 24/7 to fuel your collection.
- Feeling more anxious or depressed if you miss a "drop?" FOMO (fear of missing out) can lead to feelings of anxiety and regret, but it shouldn't ruin your day.
Increase in Interpersonal Strain & Conflict
- Do you find yourself arguing with loved ones about your collecting habits? Sometimes it is hard to see issues within ourselves, and an outside party can better shed light on what's occurring.
- Are you withdrawing from friends or family to focus on your collection? This can present as cancelling plans or missing social obligations.
- Are you using collecting to avoid relationship stress or emotional issues? Collecting is fun, but should not be a replacement for quality time or conversations.
Losing Control: Some signs and symptoms can include:
Repeatedly trying to cut back on purchasing / collection and being unable to ("I just can't stop!")
Feeling guilty or ashamed but continuing the behavior
Not enjoying it as much anymore, but feeling “compelled” to keep going
You may see how this resembles other "addictions" we know of, that include substances, situations or other vices.
Onto the big question, when does such a collection descend into a DISORDER? We don't use this word lightly in psychiatry, just so you're aware.
Certainly, the DSM-5 is not equipped with a "Labubu Collection Disorder" and I probably don't expect it for the next patch update or DSM-6. But as with most major mental health conditions, we are looking for an impairment in functioning. Does your collection interfere with your ability to work and/or go to school? Then you may have a condition that requires treatment. Many of the above signs and symptoms collaborate together to create a condition that quite honestly, probably takes out of your collection.
Especially important is to recognize overlap with symptoms of depression (https://www.palmtreepsychiatry.com/depression) or anxiety (https://www.palmtreepsychiatry.com/anxiety-disorders)- is this being contributed to with the collection?
💬 Some Final Thoughts
Collecting Labubus—or any collectible—can absolutely be a fun dopamine hit. Heck, even our staff has gotten in on the fun and you may see some of the elves around our office. But mental health is all about balance. It’s okay to love something deeply, as long as it’s not running your day-to-day. As long as it remains fun and isn't something that you're finding yourself NEEDING to do, you may still be okay.
Palm Tree Psychiatry and Dr. Tzvi Furer, however, don't guarantee that your pieces will remain valuable over time. But maybe the greater worth is in having some fun to share with others, and maybe a new outfit or two for the road.
🌴 At Palm Tree Psychiatry, Dr. Tzvi Furer is an experienced adult, child and adolescent psychiatrist who is ready to aid you in your mental health journey. He also likes to collect things sometimes in the pop culture zeitgeist. If you are interested in a consultation, please visit our website at www.palmtreepsychiatry.com.
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