The white rabbit trend explained
What does "the rabbit got me" mean?
Quick summary
- The “White Rabbit” or “rabbit got me” trend is a metaphor for sudden or life-changing experiences
- People, including parents, are using it to share personal experiences, emotional reflections, and connect with peers online
- While mostly positive, it’s important to consider privacy and healthy expression when posting online, to avoid any regrets or upset from yourself or your children later down the line
Social media trends aren’t just for teens, and a recent trend that’s allowing parents to share and connect is the “White Rabbit” trend.
Often summed up with the phrase “the rabbit got me,” this trend has become a way for adults to share life changes, reflect on personal experiences, and even connect with other parents online.
If you’ve seen fellow social media users or parents posting about it, and though “I’m lost” then we’re here to explain what’s happening and why it’s going viral.
What is the “White Rabbit” trend?
Inspired by the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland, the trend represents being “caught” by sudden, unexpected, life-changing moments.
They come out of the blue and turn your life upside down.
And, you are left to pick up the pieces.
These White Rabbit moments can be anything.
For some, it is the trials and tribulations of parenthood.
For others, it's the death of loved ones, breakups, accidents, mental health issues, or redundancies. Many of these themes a teen, for example, may join in on.
Why parents are joining the trend
It’s fair to say that sometimes people assume trends are a teenage thing. But this proves they aren’t!
Parents are joining the trend to express big changes they went through in their past, and connecting with others who understand:
- Relatability: seeing other parents “caught” by similar life events can make people feel less alone
- Humour: even serious or stressful moments can be shared with a playful twist
- Community: sharing experiences online allows parents to exchange support, advice, or encouragement
- Reflection: posting about life-changing moments gives people the space to acknowledge challenges and milestones in a way that’s creative and structured
How parents are using this trend
Parents are posting videos or photos of the days or months leading up to their big, life-changing moment.
They’ll usually add an ominous ticking clock sound and write a caption about what happened to them.
For example, Instagrammer @paisley_dually posted a reel of their dog who passed away, with the caption ‘It’s almost been three weeks without you, and I’m still waiting to come home to you smiling.”
Another account, @pinkmoonateiler, connected with this trend by opening up about their business, saying, “my life has not been the same since closing my shop. It’s been almost 3 months and it’s been really tough…trying to find my way back.”
These posts let people share stories they might not otherwise express, offering both entertainment and solidarity to others who have lived similar experiences.
Are there any risks in taking part in this trend?
While the White Rabbit trend is generally safe and often creative, there are some things for parents to keep in mind:
- Privacy: avoid sharing personal information about your children or family that could be exploited (sometimes known as “sharenting”)
- Emotional impact: reflect before posting stressful or sensitive moments, as some memories may be triggering later or could accidentally become “sadfishing” – bear in mind your child may come across the video and feel worried if it's more serious or revealing
- Social comparison: It’s easy to feel like others’ lives are more dramatic, but remember, trends often highlight extremes – especially the ones that go viral
- Boundaries: participation should be fun and expressive, not competitive or stressful – you shouldn’t have to feel like you’re mining any trauma in order to get views
Other ways to share or express big life moments
Not every parent wants to post life events online, and that’s completely fine!
There are plenty of ways to express, process, or share experiences safely and meaningfully:
- Journaling: write down milestones, challenges, or memorable moments to reflect on privately
- Private groups: use closed social media groups or parenting forums to share experiences with a trusted community
- Storytelling with friends/family: open up with people you trust about the experiences that have affected you
- Creative outlets: use photography, scrapbooking, or art to capture important events without posting publicly
- Video diaries: record videos for personal use or to share selectively with close friends or relatives
Making the trend work for you
The White Rabbit trend offers parents a creative outlet to reflect on major life events, laugh at challenges, and connect with a broader community.
When approached thoughtfully, it can be a fun, positive way to share experiences while also building empathy and solidarity with other parents navigating the ups and downs of life.
How we created this article:
luna's team of experts comprises GPs, Dermatologists, Safeguarding Leads and Junior Doctors as well as Medical Students with specialised interests in paediatric care, mental health and gynaecology. All articles are created by experts, and reviewed by a member of luna's senior review team.
Find out about trends when your teen does
Sign up to our parent newsletter for emails on the latest teen trends, insights into our luna community and to keep up to date
By signing up, you are agreeing that we can use your email address to market to you. You can unsubscribe from marketing emails at any time by using the link in our emails. For more information, please review our privacy statement.