Jen discusses Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD), a condition affecting 98% of individuals with ADHD, characterized by an intense emotional response to perceived rejection. She shares her personal experiences and physical sensations related to RSD, making listeners feel less alone. The podcast also delves into the psychological impact of RSD, including feelings of inadequacy and shame, and offers insights and coping strategies for managing these overwhelming emotions. It's an enlightening conversation that highlights the importance of awareness and support.
Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) leads to intense emotional responses in individuals with ADHD, often experienced physically and affecting self-acceptance.
Effective coping strategies for RSD include awareness of emotional responses and seeking support from trauma-informed therapists and ADHD coaches.
Rejection Sensitivity Disorder (RSD) is characterized by an intense emotional response to perceived rejection or disappointment. This emotional pain is felt physically in various areas of the body, such as the chest, stomach, and solar plexus, leading to overwhelming feelings of shame and unworthiness. The condition often presents an irrational form of emotional intensity, where reactions far exceed the actual trigger, affecting both personal well-being and professional interactions. This heightened sensitivity means that individuals may feel profound emotional distress even from benign feedback or criticism, complicating their emotional landscape and leading to challenges in self-acceptance.
The Connection Between RSD and ADHD
Individuals with ADHD frequently experience RSD, which can severely impede their ability to cope with criticism and relational dynamics. The perception of rejection can stem from situations as minor as a misunderstanding or receiving constructive feedback at work, causing an instant emotional upheaval. This sensitivity can manifest in maladaptive behaviors, such as people-pleasing tendencies, where individuals try to prevent future hurt by pleasing others. However, if they fail to manage this sensitivity, avoidance of potentially limiting opportunities may occur, reinforcing feelings of unworthiness and leading them into a cycle of anxiety and isolation.
Coping Strategies and Seeking Support
Effective coping strategies for managing RSD include increasing awareness of one's emotional responses and engaging in supportive therapies. Identifying RSD episodes can help individuals understand their feelings and reactions, allowing for healthier management techniques. Engaging with trauma-informed therapists and ADHD coaches can provide tailored support, helping those affected build resilience against rejection triggers. Overall, acknowledging RSD as a legitimate experience is crucial, as it encourages individuals to seek help, validate their feelings, and understand that they are not alone in their struggles.
This week: Jen talks about Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria. RSD affects 98% people with ADHD and is an intense emotional response caused by the perception that we’ve disappointed others in our life and will now be rejected, abandoned, unloved as a consequence. Jen talks about how RSD feels in her body and reads lots of comments from her listeners about they experience RSD. This episode will help you feel less alone!
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