REJECTION SENSITIVE DYSPHORIA (RSD)
ADHD is so much more than a struggle with organization and procrastination. My patients frequently (almost always?) struggle with their emotions. Were you ever called “sensitive” as a child? Even if the label seemed dismissive of your pain or didn't bother you, it was inaccurate.
Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) is emotional sensitivity (sometimes extreme) and pain triggered by the perception that a person has been rejected or criticized by important people in their life. It may also be triggered by a sense of falling short—failing to meet their own high standards or others’ expectations.
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
When this emotional response is externalized, it looks like an impressive, instantaneous rage at the person or situation responsible for causing the pain.
Rejection sensitivity is part of ADHD. It’s neurologic and genetic. Early childhood trauma makes anything worse, but it does not cause RSD. Often, patients are comforted just to know there is a name for this feeling. It makes a difference knowing what it is, that they are not alone, and that almost 100% of people with ADHD experience rejection sensitivity. After hearing this diagnosis, they’re relieved to know it’s not their fault and that they are not damaged.
There are 2 classes of medication commonly prescribed for help with RSD, guanfacine or clonodine and MAO inhibitors.
Read more by William Dodson here: www.additudemag.com/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-and-adhd/