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What is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria?

Let’s discuss Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). I now understand RSD to be similar to/a form of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; this resonates with my experience.

I experience(d) RSD acutely to the point that I was frozen, dissociated, and in a constant cycle of meltdown-shutdown. I have been working intently to heal my dysphoria through coregulation, self-regulation with sensory supports, and medication (guanfacine).

I hope this is useful to help dispel the stigma, create equity in access, and radical inclusion of people with RSD.

A mustard yellow and black graphic featuring a long-haired person hiding their face. Underneath reads, “What is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria?”
A mustard yellow and black graphic contains a bright orchid icon of a person in pain. The text reads, “Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is described as extreme emotional sensitivity and pain triggered by the perception of rejection. It is important to note that the rejection does not have to be real; even the perception of rejection triggers a pain response and reactive behavior.”
A mustard yellow and black graphic reads, “RSD can affect anyone, but it seems to be frequently found in neurodivergent populations, such as those diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD)*.” A bright orchid arrow icon points to the words, “*Many people prefer the use of the term “condition” instead of disorder to more accurately communicate neurodevelopmental difference vs. disorder.”
A mustard yellow and black graphic features a bright orchid brain icon. The text reads, “RSD is connected both to neurodivergent experiences of emotional experiences and trauma of past rejection. Neurodiverse people are neurologically wired to experience sensory information more intensely, whether it comes from outside or inside of their bodies. Therefore, even rejection feels (and is!) bigger inside of a neurodivergent mind.”
A mustard yellow and black graphic features the bright orchid icon of an isolated person. The text reads, “The emotional experience of the perception of being rejected is often excruciatingly painful and impairing. It is more similar to a panic (instantaneous, intense) than anxiety (builds up over time). To those around the person experiencing RSD, their big emotional reactions are often described as “coming out of nowhere.”
A mustard yellow and black graphic reads, “Remember: 1) The rejection can be real or perceived; the brain processes it as a real threat. 2) Physiological sensations in response to the rejection can be distressing and deserve relief. 3) People experiencing RSD deserve compassion, support, and inclusion.” Underneath is a bright orchid heart icon.
A mustard yellow and black graphic reads, “This is Part 1 of a 6 Part Series. 1: What is RSD?; 2: What does an episode of RSD look like?; 3: Why does RSD affect neurodivergent people?; 4: How long does RSD last?; 5: What should I do if someone I know is experiencing RSD?; 6: What should I do if I am experiencing RSD?”

References

*Peer-reviewed

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