What is Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria?

Many folks with ADHD experience something called Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). This is a form of emotional dysregulation in response to perceived criticism, judgement or failure. Those who experience it may feel intense anger, sadness, or anxiety when triggers arise; far more intense feelings than someone who does not have RSD.

What does RSD look like?

Some common behaviours include people-pleasing, perfectionism, and social isolation to avoid triggers. When RSD is activated, it may manifest as defensiveness, angry outbursts, tears, withdrawal, or other signs of frustration.

Furthermore, some other indicators are:

• Easily embarrassed
• Avoidance of tasks/projects
• Quick mood changes
• Those who internalize RSD may display signs of depression

What’s the link to ADHD?

Rejection sensitivity dysphoria has been associated with various mood disorders. However, research shows it is most commonly found in individuals with ADHD. (Cleveland Clinic, 2022)

What’s the cause?

It’s tough to narrow it down to one definitive answer. Although, we do know that the ADHD brain processes information differently. It tends to have difficulty filtering important information from unimportant, which is why sensory processing can be different in ADHD folks. Similarly, this difference in communication can amplify how judgments and criticisms are processed, deeming them more important than a neurotypical brain would. This overlap is an important consideration in the treatment of RSD.

How is it treated?

RSD is not an official disorder recognized by the DSM-5TR. But, treating the related disorder (such as ADHD) and the symptoms (such as emotional dysregulation) is a common practice. Practicing calming techniques, learning to respond to triggers, and learning to self-regulate are all useful tools for reducing the severity of rejection sensitivity. If you think you may be experiencing rejection sensitivity dysphoria, reach out to one of our counsellors here.

Source: Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD): Symptoms & treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24099-rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-rsd