Rejection sensitivity and ADHD: understanding the term RSD

What does RSD mean?

Rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) is an informal expression for intense distress in response to perceived rejection, criticism or failure. It is discussed in relation to ADHD, but it is not a separate established diagnosis and a reliable prevalence is not established. Anxiety, depression and other explanations must not be dismissed as misdiagnosed RSD without assessment.

Possible experiences described as RSD

Sensitivity and clinical assessment

Everyday examples of rejection sensitivity

• A colleague suggests a small improvement and you feel like a complete failure
• Avoiding job applications through fear of rejection
• Replaying social interactions in search of signs of disapproval
• Striving for perfection to avoid any criticism

Possible ways to cope with rejection sensitivity

1. Awareness — notice your response without treating it as a definitive judgement of your worth
2. Reframing — consider alternative interpretations of the situation
3. Grounding — bring attention back to the present moment
4. Self-compassion — speak to yourself as you would to a valued friend
5. Preparation — plan a helpful response to criticism in advance

When to seek support

If distress about rejection seriously affects work, relationships or daily life, seek a qualified mental-health assessment. Care should address the assessed difficulties or conditions. Do not start, stop or change medication based on the informal RSD label or this article.