Someone gives you feedback at work. It's constructive, even kind. But something inside you collapses. Your chest tightens. Your thoughts spiral.
This is rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), and it's one of the most painful aspects of ADHD. RSD isn't just being "sensitive." It's an intense, overwhelming emotional response to perceived rejection or criticism.
For women with ADHD, RSD is often compounded by decades of actual rejection and criticism. You're not just reacting to this moment — you're reacting to every moment like it that came before.
Managing RSD starts with recognition. When the wave hits, name it: "This is RSD. My brain is amplifying this." Then: breathe. Ground yourself. Wait before responding.
If this resonated with you…
This is the work I do in 1:1 coaching — moving you from self-blame to self-understanding, and from treading water to finally living YourADHD.Life.
The Your SHINE Journey programme is 6 months of deep, personalised coaching for late-diagnosed women who are ready to stop managing and start living. No scripts, no one-size-fits-all. Just real work, built around your brain.
Nishia Wadhwani
ADHD Coach
ADHD Coach and founder of YourADHD.Life. Late-diagnosed herself, she works with women navigating the reality of ADHD in midlife — the career, the relationships, the identity shifts, and the "what now" that nobody prepared them for.
Learn more about me → Back to Mental Health & Emotions
