10 Things you need to know about rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD)

Have you ever felt like your emotions are on overdrive when someone rejects or criticizes you? Do you find yourself constantly seeking validation and avoiding situations where rejection is possible? If so, you may be experiencing rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD). RSD is a little-known condition that affects many individuals with ADHD. In this blog post, we’ll explore five things you need to know about RSD, including its symptoms, treatment options, and more. So buckle up and get ready to learn!

1. What is rejection sensitive dysphoria?

Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) is a condition that causes intense emotional responses to perceived rejection or criticism. For individuals with RSD, even mild criticism can feel like an attack on their self-worth and trigger feelings of shame, embarrassment, and anger.

RSD is often associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but it can also occur in people who do not have ADHD. RSD is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

The symptoms of RSD can vary from person to person but may include avoidance of situations where rejection or criticism are possible, seeking constant validation from others, difficulty maintaining relationships due to fear of rejection or abandonment, and low self-esteem.

2. The difference between rejection sensitivity and rejection sensitive dysphoria

Rejection sensitivity is a general term that refers to the tendency of some people to react emotionally to perceived rejection or criticism. Rejection sensitive dysphoria, on the other hand, is a specific condition that is characterized by intense emotional reactions to perceived. 

3. Is RSD exclusive to ADHD?

Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) is often associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), but it is not exclusive to this condition. Individuals diagnosed with other mental health disorders, such as anxiety and bipolar disorder, may also experience symptoms of RSD.

However, research shows that individuals with ADHD are more likely to experience RSD than those without the condition. The high levels of emotional arousal and sensitivity commonly seen in people with ADHD can contribute to the development of RSD. Emotion Regulation (ER) difficulties, such as impulsivity and a lack of self-awareness, also play a role in the development of RSD. Emotion Regulation is part of Executive Functioning and is responsible for controlling and monitoring our emotions.

It’s important to note that experiencing rejection sensitivity does not necessarily mean an individual has ADHD or any other mental health condition. People who have experienced trauma or significant life stressors may develop heightened sensitivity to rejection.

While there is still much we don’t know about RSD and its causes, recognizing the link between this symptom and certain mental health conditions can help healthcare providers better diagnose and treat their patients.

4. Does a diagnosis of autism also include RSD?

Yes, a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes the presence of rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD). While RSD is more common in individuals with ADHD, it is not exclusive to this group. Individuals with ASD may also experience heightened sensitivity to rejection, which can lead to social isolation and difficulties in forming relationships. 

Brain studies of children with autism have found different brain reactions than non-autistic children when experiencing rejection. They may be processing rejection differently, especially if they have difficulty with interpreting social cues.

5. Other cooccuring conditions associated with RSD

Other cooccurring conditions that may be associated with RSD include: 

• Depression (particularly with “atypical” features)
• Anxiety
• Loneliness
• Borderline personality disorder
• Body dysmorphic disorder

 

6. Symptoms of RSD

Symptoms of Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria can make it difficult for individuals to navigate social situations and maintain healthy relationships. Those with RSD may feel an intense fear of rejection or criticism, which can lead to avoidance behaviors that impact their daily lives.

Physical symptoms of RSD include racing heart rate, sweating, and trembling in response to perceived rejection or criticism. Emotional symptoms may include feelings of shame, self-doubt, and hopelessness.

Individuals with RSD may also experience changes in mood and behavior when faced with high-pressure situations such as job interviews or public speaking engagements. They may become overwhelmed by negative feedback from others or perceive even constructive criticism as a personal attack.

It’s important to note that while many people experience occasional feelings of rejection sensitivity, those with RSD have symptoms severe enough to interfere with their daily functioning. If you suspect you might have this condition, speak with your healthcare provider about potential treatment options.

7. RSD is not in the DSM-5

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is a relatively new concept, and as such, it has yet to be included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The DSM-5 is used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental health disorders. However, this does not mean that RSD isn’t a real condition.

Many people who experience RSD may feel frustrated or invalidated because their experiences are not officially recognized in the DSM-5. However, many experts believe that RSD should be included in future versions of the manual.

The fact that RSD is not currently listed in the DSM-5 should not discourage individuals from seeking help if they believe they have symptoms of this condition. Many mental health professionals are aware of RSD and can offer support and resources for managing its symptoms.

It’s important to remember that just because something isn’t officially recognized doesn’t mean it’s not valid or important. As our understanding of mental health conditions continues to evolve, we may see changes in how these conditions are classified and diagnosed over time.

8. RSD complicates relationships

Rejection sensitive dysphoria can complicate relationships in a number of ways. 

Rejection sensitivity can interfere with relationships in a variety of ways. People who have high rejection sensitivity may misinterpret any behavior to be a rejection of them, instead of thinking of any other possible explanation.

They may then act in ways that end up pushing the partner away from them, further reinforcing these mistaken interpretations. Consistently believing they are being rejected can also lead to conflict.

All of this can lead to a lack of happiness in relationships. Some research has found a link between rejection sensitivity and a small but significant increase in the risk of aggression toward others, especially if they are very invested in their relationships. This is thought to be because of the defensive motivational system (DMS).

In situations in which rejection is a possibility, the DMS theory proposes that someone with high rejection sensitivity is more likely to act aggressively in “self-defense.”

9. The role of the nervous system

It’s important to note that rejection sensitivity is not simply a mental or emotional problem. It is also influenced by the nervous system. The nervous system is responsible for sending and receiving signals between the brain and other parts of the body. When something feels threatening, the nervous system will activate in order to protect us. 

It is also possible that during infancy and early childhood, our nervous system may be more sensitive to the negative emotions associated with rejection.

Research on the role of the nervous system in rejection sensitivity is still in its early stages. However, what is known so far suggests that the nervous system may play an important role in the development of this condition. One study found that people who have a higher rejection sensitivity tend to have a lower threshold for pain. This means that they are more likely to experience intense emotional reactions to even the slightest rejection. 

The nervous system is thought to play a role in the development of rejection sensitivity. It’s possible that during infancy and early childhood, our nervous system may be more sensitive to the negative emotions associated with rejection.

 This could lead to a stronger reaction to any form of rejection, no matter how slight.

10. How you can overcome RSD

Overcoming rejection sensitive dysphoria can be a challenging process, but it is possible. Here are some strategies that may help you manage your RSD:

1. Recognize and acknowledge your emotions: The first step in overcoming RSD is to recognize when it’s happening and acknowledging how you feel. By identifying these feelings, you can start to work on managing them.

2. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such deep breathing exercises, can help calm your mind when you’re feeling overwhelmed by rejection sensitivity.

3. Seek support from others: It’s important to have a support system of people who understand what you’re going through and can offer encouragement during difficult times.

4. Develop coping skills: Learning healthy coping mechanisms like exercise, engaging in hobbies or spending time with friends can help alleviate symptoms of RSD.

5. Consider therapy options: Speaking with a mental health professional who specializes in ADHD and/or RSD could be beneficial for developing individualized strategies for managing symptoms.

Remember that recovery from any mental health condition is not linear and requires patience and persistence over time. With the right tools and support systems in place, individuals living with RSD will eventually learn how to better navigate life’s challenges without being ruled by their fear of rejection.

 

 

Conclusion

Rejection sensitive dysphoria can be a challenging condition to deal with, but it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Many people who have ADHD also experience RSD, and there are ways to manage the symptoms.

If you suspect that you may have RSD, it’s essential to seek professional help from a mental health expert. They can diagnose the condition and provide guidance on how best to cope with its effects.

Remember that overcoming rejection sensitivity is possible through therapy, medication, mindfulness practices or other coping techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).

With time and patience, those living with RSD will learn how their thoughts and emotions influence their lives differently than others around them. Managing negative feelings in healthy ways such as meditation or exercise can bring about positive change for those struggling with this condition.

By understanding more about this often-misunderstood challenge faced by many individuals with ADHD today – we hope our article has helped shed light on some of the key things everyone should know when dealing with rejection-sensitive dysphoria.