Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) is an emotional condition that triggers extreme reactions to perceived criticism, social rejection, or teasing. As awareness of RSD grows, individuals like Jenna Turnbull share their stories, shedding light on a condition that is only recently gaining recognition in mental health discussions. This article explores the experiences of those affected, the underlying factors contributing to RSD, and the importance of understanding this often-overlooked issue.
The Emotional Toll of RSD
Jenna Turnbull, a civil servant from Cardiff, vividly recalls moments from her childhood that still haunt her. At just 11 years old, a boy’s comment about her appearance sent her spiralling into a deep sense of shame. “I can picture myself waiting outside for PE, and the embarrassment is still so real,” she reflects. Her narrative highlights how seemingly trivial incidents can leave deep emotional scars, leading to overwhelming physical responses years later.
Turnbull’s struggles didn’t stop in childhood. An innocent remark about her homekeeping made during a night out with friends ignited a compulsive behaviour that spiralled into obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). “I began cleaning obsessively, spending hours on tasks that others might see as mundane,” she explains. Such intense reactions are common among those with RSD, where the fear of rejection can manifest in debilitating physical symptoms, including panic attacks.
The Link Between RSD and ADHD
Rejection sensitive dysphoria is often associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), although it is not formally recognised as a distinct diagnosis. Dr William Dodson, a leading expert on the subject, notes that many individuals with ADHD experience RSD. He describes the emotional dysregulation that characterises RSD as significantly more intense than typical reactions to rejection. “It’s not just sensitivity; it’s a profound sense of unbearable pain,” he states, emphasising that for those with RSD, these feelings can feel life-altering.
Turnbull, diagnosed with ADHD in childhood, found solace and understanding when she learned about RSD through a mental health crisis line during a particularly challenging period in her life. The nurse who spoke with her suggested that her intense emotional responses were linked to RSD, a revelation that helped her make sense of her experiences. “Just knowing there was a name for what I was feeling was transformative,” she says.
The Growing Recognition of RSD
In recent years, RSD has gained traction in both clinical and public discussions, supported by an increase in social media groups and online forums where individuals share their experiences. One Facebook group dedicated to RSD boasts over 67,000 members, illustrating the widespread nature of this condition.
An employment tribunal case highlighted the issue further when a worker received £12,000 in compensation after her employer made a dismissive comment about her needs related to RSD. This case reflects a growing awareness of the need for understanding and accommodation for those affected by the condition in workplaces and beyond. However, public perception remains mixed, and many continue to question the legitimacy of RSD.
Turnbull has encountered scepticism from friends and family. “People often dismiss it as being overly sensitive,” she shares, noting that such comments can exacerbate the feelings of isolation and misunderstanding that accompany RSD.
Pathways to Understanding and Support
Despite the challenges, individuals like Turnbull are seeking help and learning to navigate their emotions. Therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioural therapy, have proven beneficial in helping those with RSD manage their responses to perceived rejection. Turnbull has found that therapy, combined with medication for her ADHD, has significantly improved her quality of life. “I can now identify when I start to feel tight in my chest and take steps to ground myself,” she explains.
Dr Shyamal Mashru, a psychiatrist specialising in adult ADHD, notes that many of his patients experience physical symptoms like palpitations or breathlessness when faced with rejection. He emphasises the importance of understanding the underlying emotional processes and suggests that a combination of therapy and medication can offer relief.
Why it Matters
RSD affects not just individuals but also their relationships, careers, and overall well-being. The emotional pain associated with rejection can lead to significant mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. Understanding RSD is crucial in fostering empathy and support for those who experience it, promoting healthier communication and emotional resilience. As society becomes more aware of mental health issues, it is essential to create spaces for dialogue and acceptance, enabling those with RSD to feel seen and understood in their journeys toward healing.
