What is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)?


Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is a term used to describe an intense emotional response to perceived or actual rejection or criticism. It is characterised by extreme sensitivity to rejection, often resulting in feelings of deep pain, shame, or embarrassment that can be disproportionate to the situation at hand. This condition is not officially classified as such, but is widely recognised as a significant aspect of certain neurodivergence such as ADHD and autism.

RSD is often described as an "overwhelming sense of emotional pain triggered by even minor or perceived rejection". Individuals with RSD may experience a flood of negative emotions, including intense sadness, anger, or anxiety, in response to real or imagined rejection or criticism. These emotional reactions can be so severe that they lead to social withdrawal, avoidance of situations where rejection might occur, or even outbursts of anger or frustration. Because the feelings associated with RSD are so intense and immediate, they can have a profound impact on a person's self-esteem, relationships, and overall mental well-being.

RSD tends to affect neurodivergent individuals more frequently, with a particularly strong association with ADHD. Neurodivergence refers to a variation in brain neurology that results in differences in processing compared to a neurotypical brain, and it includes conditions such as ADHD, Autism, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia and many others. For people with ADHD, the heightened emotional sensitivity linked to RSD is often exacerbated by the challenges of managing impulsivity and emotional regulation, both of which are core aspects of ADHD.

The experience of RSD can vary widely among individuals. Some may feel intense anger or frustration when they perceive rejection, while others may experience deep sadness or a sense of worthlessness. In many cases, these feelings are internalised, leading to chronic anxiety or depression. For others, the fear of rejection can become so badly overwhelming that they avoid social situations altogether, limiting their ability to form and maintain meaningful relationships.

Supporting individuals with RSD requires a multifaceted approach that includes both understanding and practical strategies. The first step is to recognise that RSD is a legitimate and serious concern for those who experience it. Dismissing their feelings as overreactions can exacerbate the problem and increase the individual's sense of isolation or frustration.

Providing a supportive and empathetic environment is crucial. This means being mindful of how feedback and criticism are delivered, ensuring it is done in a constructive and gentle manner. Clear communication is essential, as ambiguity or mixed messages can easily be misinterpreted as rejection. Additionally, helping individuals with RSD develop coping strategies, such as mindfulness or cognitive-behavioral techniques, can empower them to manage their emotional responses more effectively.

Encouraging individuals to seek professional support, such as therapy, can also be beneficial. Therapeutic approaches that focus on emotional regulation, self-esteem building, and addressing underlying anxiety or depression can be particularly effective. Support groups, either in person or online, can also provide a sense of community and understanding, helping individuals with RSD feel less alone in their experiences.

In conclusion, Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria is a deeply impactful condition, especially for neurodivergent individuals. By recognising the challenges associated with RSD and offering thoughtful support, we can help those affected navigate their emotional experiences with greater resilience and confidence.

Want to learn more? Our audio blog on Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria & ADHD can be found here.