Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria: The Iceberg Under the Surface

Summary: Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is a hidden but very painful part of ADHD and Autism. It makes people feel intense emotional pain when they think someone is criticizing or rejecting them. Experts say RSD is like an iceberg. On the outside, people might just see someone getting angry, crying, or shutting down. But underneath the water, there is a lot more going on. To avoid the pain of rejection, people with RSD often become perfectionists, try to please everyone, or avoid new things completely.

While these habits might help kids survive, they take up too much energy for adults. If you deal with RSD, you can help yourself by learning your triggers, calming your body (like taking a warm bath or going for a walk), and finding a safe group of friends who understand you. Learning to apologize when you overreact can also save your relationships.

For more details, see Psychology Today at psychologytoday.com/us/blog/empowerment-is-real/202604/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-the-iceberg-under-the-surface (opens in new tab)