Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD) is known for symptoms like inattention, impulsive behaviors, and being overly active. But there’s another challenge that many people with ADHD in adulthood face: Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). This is an intense emotional reaction to feeling rejected, criticized, or like a failure. While not a medical diagnosis, RSD describes the deep emotional pain that some people with ADHD experience when they think they are being rejected, left out, or judged.
What is Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria?
RSD means feeling extreme sadness, embarrassment, or even anger when facing rejection or criticism. Even small things—like a friend not texting back right away or a boss giving feedback—can feel overwhelming. Some adults with RSD may avoid new situations or react strongly to protect themselves from emotional pain. People with RSD appears to have emotional problems due to their difficulty with emotional regulation.
How is RSD Connected to ADHD?
Although RSD can happen to anyone, it is especially common in adults with ADHD. This is because ADHD affects the brain’s ability to manage emotions. People with ADHD often feel emotions more strongly and have trouble calming down once they are upset.
Since ADHD can make emotions harder to control, rejection can feel much worse than it actually is. This can cause someone to avoid activities where they might fail or be judged. This can also cause adults with ADHD to engage in perfectionist behaviors in an attempt to reduce the likelihood of making a mistake and being criticized. Over time, this can lead to low self-esteem, difficulty maintaining relationships, and struggles at work.
How RSD Affects Daily Life
- Work and Career: Fear of failure or negative feedback may cause procrastination, job-hopping, or avoidance of leadership roles.
- Friendships and Relationships: Someone with RSD may take small comments personally and feel like others don’t like them, even if that’s not true.
- Mental Health: Constantly worrying about rejection can lead to anxiety, depression, and feelings of not being good enough.
ADHD/ADD Therapy for Adults: Managing RSD and ADHD
Even though RSD can be tough, there are effective ADHD/ADD therapy for adults options that can help:
- Know Your Triggers – Pay attention to what makes you feel this way so you can prepare for it.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – A common form of ADHD/ADD therapy for adults, CBT helps change negative thought patterns and improve emotional control.
- Medication Treatment – Some ADHD medications may also help reduce RSD symptoms.
- Mindfulness and Coping Skills – Deep breathing, meditation, and self-kindness can help you react in a calmer way.
- Support Groups – Connecting with others through ADHD support groups can provide comfort and useful coping tools.
Start ADHD/ADD Therapy for Adults Today
Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria is a serious challenge for many adults with ADHD, but it can be managed with the right approach. ADHD/ADD therapy for adults offers strategies to help people handle emotions, improve relationships, and feel more confident. With the right tools and support, adults with ADHD and RSD can learn to face rejection with resilience and success. If you’re struggling, consider ADHD/ADD therapy for adults to get the support you need. Therapy for Adulting is located in Los Angeles, CA and can provide online services to anyone in the state of California. Gina is a therapist who specializes in ADHD and ADD, Adulting, and Dating, offering personalized support to help you address your negative self-talk, build confidence, improve your mindset, and take control of your thoughts.
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