Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is an extreme emotional sensitivity triggered by real or perceived rejection. This can be a part of emotional dysregulation. If you are not sure what that is, read my last post. RSD is usually seen in disorders like autism, ADHD, social anxiety, or trauma. This can also be seen in other things, but those are the most common. I wanted to share a little about how RSD has impacted me.

Any form of rejection, even if it is minor can cause feelings of depression, anger, or anxiety. I personally get depressed or angry mostly. It can be something as small as not getting a text back or someone not saying they miss me back. People may also go through a big emotional reaction before an anticipated rejection. This could be asking to help with something and someone doesn't need any extra help. It may seem small, but it can make someone with RSD feel rejected or like they are not important.

A lot of people with RSD see no reaction or vague reactions as rejection even if it isn't. It is hard for us to separate reality from the perceived rejection. This can also make it hard to do certain tasks. Personally, I love writing; however, I struggle to write sometimes because there could be judgement once I write something. It may be hard for someone to set goals because they are afraid the goals won't go through and they will feel like a failure.

It can be difficult to regulate emotions when it comes to rejection and failure. A neurotypical person may be able to understand why they are being criticized, but an autistic person may have a meltdown because they failed and now they believe they are not good enough to do anything right ever. Fear of rejection may affect a person's life and relationships negatively and cause constant meltdowns. It can be exhausting for someone who experiences RSD.

RSD can be caused by a lot of factors. It can be a different brain structure, trauma, or other mental health conditions. I experience it a lot and it gets tiring. I am constantly worried that I will be rejected or that I'll fail at something I am doing. I have a hard time starting anything because I am worried someone will see it and decide it's not good enough. I do not handle criticism well. This is common among many neurodivergent people.

It can be difficult to help someone who experiences RSD because they are even worried about perceived rejection, but the best thing you can do is let them know they are doing well. If you have to say something negative, then also say something positive. The person experiencing RSD is probably already thinking the worst and they will need reassurance. Most people with RSD will appreciate the reassurance and it might help them not feel so down. Also, giving feedback with time to process. Do not do it right before they are about to go do something. They may feel like a failure and give up. We need extra time to process things and understand that we are not failures. I have been through it and I can say time to process and reassurance are important here.

I hope this helps someone understand RSD a little better. It is not a weakness. It is just a difference in thinking. We are trying our best and we need support. Thank you for reading!