Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is a condition that is gaining increased recognition for its profound impact on individuals’ emotional well-being. Those affected experience overwhelming feelings of shame, embarrassment, and anxiety in response to perceived criticism or rejection, often leading to severe physical reactions. As more people come forward to share their experiences, the complexities of RSD are starting to be understood, revealing the urgent need for awareness and supportive resources.
The Personal Impact of RSD
Jenna Turnbull, a 36-year-old civil servant from Cardiff, openly shares her struggles with RSD, describing physical sensations that accompany her emotional pain. Reflecting on a childhood incident where a peer teased her about her appearance, she recalls the visceral embarrassment that still affects her today. “My chest feels like it’s collapsing,” she confesses. Such memories linger long after the events themselves, often resurfacing with intense emotional weight.
For Turnbull, even casual remarks among friends can trigger overwhelming shame. A seemingly innocent comment about her home-cleaning habits led her to obsessively clean her house, a compulsive behaviour that later contributed to her diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). “I’ve been known to spend four or five hours cleaning my bathroom,” she reveals, highlighting how deeply her reactions are rooted in her psyche.
The Link Between RSD and ADHD
Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria is not formally recognised as a standalone diagnosis but is commonly associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Dr. William Dodson, a psychiatrist based in Denver, has studied the condition extensively and notes that many individuals with ADHD experience heightened emotional responses to rejection. “The pain of rejection is several orders of magnitude stronger,” he explains.
While RSD can also be present in individuals with autism and generalised anxiety disorder, the precise mechanisms and triggers remain largely underexplored. The term “rejection sensitive dysphoria” first emerged in the 1960s, but its prevalence in recent years has led to increased discussions and support networks on social media, with one Facebook group alone boasting over 67,000 members.
The Stigma Surrounding RSD
Despite the growing awareness of RSD, stigma persists. Turnbull often faces scepticism from friends and family who dismiss her experiences as overly sensitive. “There is an outlook that invisible ailments can’t be real,” she shares, reflecting on the emotional toll such dismissals can take. The lack of understanding around RSD can lead to feelings of isolation among those affected.
In the workplace, RSD has begun to intersect with employment law, as evidenced by a recent tribunal case where an employee diagnosed with both dyslexia and RSD was awarded £12,000 after her boss’s dismissive comments. Such legal recognitions may help shed light on the condition, yet public perceptions remain mixed, with many believing that discomfort with criticism is simply a part of human nature.
Seeking Help and Finding Support
For many, the journey towards understanding RSD begins with professional help. Turnbull’s turning point came during a late-night crisis call, where a nurse suggested she might have ADHD and RSD. This insight was transformative: “Just putting a name to it was the big thing,” she recalls. Since then, she has sought therapy and medication, which have significantly improved her quality of life.
Experts like Dr. Shyamal Mashru, a specialist in adult ADHD, have noted that patients often experience intense emotional distress following triggers, with some even requiring medical attention. The interplay between emotional regulation and early life experiences of rejection can create a cycle of trauma that exacerbates RSD symptoms.
Therapeutic interventions and support groups can play crucial roles in helping individuals navigate their experiences. Turnbull, for example, has found that understanding her triggers has empowered her to communicate her needs more effectively, ultimately leading to personal growth.
Why it Matters
The emergence of Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria in public discourse is vital for fostering understanding and empathy towards those affected. As mental health becomes a priority in various contexts—be it in workplaces, educational settings, or personal relationships—acknowledging conditions like RSD is essential. With proper support, individuals can learn to manage their emotional responses and lead fulfilling lives, breaking the cycle of shame and isolation that often accompanies mental health challenges. Ultimately, raising awareness about RSD not only aids those who suffer from it but also cultivates a more compassionate society.
