ADHD Chatter The Psychiatrist Who Discovered RSD: "RSD Dies When You Do THIS!" | Dr. William (Bill) Dodson
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Feb 3, 2026 Dr. William (Bill) Dodson, a board-certified psychiatrist who identified Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). He explains what RSD feels like and why he named it. Short takes cover how RSD shapes shame, masking, and relationships. He discusses gender differences, links to trauma and PTSD-like effects, episode duration, treatment options, and practical ways to prevent or reduce RSD triggers.
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RSD Is Sudden, Physical, And Overwhelming
- Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is an intense, physical and overwhelming pain from perceived loss of love, approval, or respect.
- Dr. William Dodson says it hits from 0 to 100 and can last minutes to days but always ends.
RSD Builds On A Lifetime Of Criticism
- ADHD is a lifelong, genetic wiring that coexists with repeated negative feedback across life.
- Dodson links that constant critique to a built-up vulnerability that fuels RSD responses.
ADHD Is Different Wiring, Not Just A Deficit
- ADHD is situational, not a simple deficit; people can perform exceptionally when engaged.
- Dodson argues RSD layers catastrophic emotion onto that variable performance, creating a 'witch's brew'.
