Rejection and Anxiety: Are they Linked?

This article will delve into explaining some critical aspects about rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), a significant condition that develops in some people that takes their response to rejection beyond the ordinary emotional distress. Many of us can understand feeling hurt when facing rejection, however, for some this response intensifies into RSD. We will look at the impact of RSD and strategies to handle the challenging emotions it fosters.

Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) refers to a condition where a person feels an extreme level of distress or pain from rejection, which sometimes may be just an imagined one. This symptom is mainly linked with ADHD and can have a significant impact on a person's life and self-esteem. Dealing with feelings of rejection can be notably challenging for individuals suffering from RSD compared to others.

What causes RSD?

RSD can be triggered by various experiences like poor performance in academics or sports or a joke not being received well. Other forms of rejection may include mockery or criticism that might lead to a decrease in self-esteem. The individuals suffering from RSD frequently hold themselves to extreme standards, which makes dealing with real or imagined failures all the more challenging.

Signs Relevant to Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)

Rejection sensitive dysphoria can exhibit a variety of symptoms. Emotional turmoil is a common occurrence along with frequent bouts of depression. Even though this sadness is often instigated by a sense of being rejected, the individual may not recognize this as the root cause. If you suffer from a mental health disorder associated with RSD and constantly feel downhearted without understanding why, it could be beneficial to write down potential triggers. This can assist in determining if you may have RSD. Engaging in such exercises under the guidance of a professional could offer greater assistance.

Another indication may be the heightened reaction to criticism, often misconstruing neutral comments as negative feedback. Those suffering from RSD may constantly feel as though others look down on them, resulting in apprehension about not receiving affection or respect. The predominant symptom can be an ongoing sense of unease or frequently feeling stressed, driven by the fear of being rejected.

We have the choice to either internalize or externalize negative emotional reactions, this means rationalizing them either as a flaw within us or in our surroundings. Internalizing such emotional responses can lead to severe consequences. Therefore, it could be vital for mental health experts to understand the concept of rejection sensitivity and how it can potentially affect the welfare of individuals with certain mental conditions.

When an individual externalizes their emotional reaction, the cause of their perceived rejection may receive the brunt of their intense anger. It is noteworthy that around half of those ordered by the courts to participate in anger management therapy are discovered to have previously unknown ADHD.

Errors in Diagnosis and Connected Disorders

Those suffering from social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder, may often experience a fear of rejection, even in situations where there is no apparent danger. Social anxiety disorder and RSD share parallels as both elicit a reaction to rejection. However, the fear is generally wider in scope with social anxiety, whereas in RSD, it's more frequently encountered on an individual instance basis.

RSD is also associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Those suffering from BPD may exhibit an intense reaction to rejection, often expressing their distress through hostility. People with this disorder frequently grapple with low self-esteem and may rely on external validation to build their self-confidence. Consequently, when this validation is not provided, individuals with BPD may react negatively.

Harmful Coping Techniques for RSD

Individuals with Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) often resort to several standard practices to navigate their emotions. Firstly, they tend to modify their behavior to elicit approval from others, attempting to evade rejection. During this process, they may lose their uniqueness as they mimic traits they deem desirable to others. Secondly, they dodge circumstances where there is potential for rejection. This is rooted in their belief that trying something new can lead to failure, which they perceive as better to avoid altogether. Naturally, these coping methods can sabotage their growth and well-being.

In conclusion, some individuals may evolve into perfectionists, driven by the belief that they can dodge rejection if they never fail. Nonetheless, nobody can entirely escape failures, implying these individuals may face tougher times while failing to meet their own lofty expectations. Their perfectionist tendencies may impede them from recognizing the worth in their achievements as they consistently aim higher. Some people with RSD may employ a mix of these protective strategies.

RSD and Relationships
RSD can pose challenges to relationships, as those who are overly sensitive to rejection often perceive insults, wounds, or criticism even when none was intended, causing confusion for the other party. Additionally, the inclination to compulsively please others can lead to being inauthentic, thereby introducing potential future troubles.

The susceptibility to rejection is closely linked with ADHD due to neurological and genetic factors, particularly if childhood trauma is involved. However, this does not suggest that all individuals with ADHD will suffer from RSD. For those who do cope with RSD, acknowledging that their condition has a recognized name and that others share their experience frequently provides reassurance.

Medication Treatment for RSD
Two popular drugs often used to treat RSD are alpha agonists and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), specifically guanfacine and clonidine.

Alpha agonists guanfacine and clonidine, traditionally used to manage high blood pressure, have proven to be straightforward treatment options. About one-third of RSD patients find relief using these medications. This method has shown more positive outcomes compared to treating ADHD with stimulants.

An alternate choice involves the unapproved use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI). Many medical professionals regard this kind of drug as the recommended therapy for RSD, given its proven effectiveness in a brief timeframe.

The content produced in this article should not replace professional medical guidance. It is recommended to always consult your doctor or any other skilled health professional for any concerns or questions you may have.

If you identify with any of the symptoms discussed in this article, you may have RSD. A trained professional can assist you in handling symptoms linked to RSD, ADHD, and other mental health issues. They can also provide you with emotional reassurance and comprehension.

Individuals exhibiting symptoms of RSD often feel reluctant to seek in-person help due to the associated humiliation or overwhelming social pressure. Digital therapy serves as a practical substitute for such individuals. This web-based therapy allows them to consult with certified and expert professionals from the comfort of their own home.

It should be highlighted that the potential efficacy of online therapy in managing RSD symptoms has been researched and validated. Specifically, these web-based treatments show potential in mitigating perfectionistic behaviors associated with the disorder.

If you're experiencing signs of rejection sensitivity dysphoria, don't worry, assistance is readily available. You can start your journey toward feeling secure and self-assured around others right now.

For those contemplating online therapy, ReachLink has numerous certified and seasoned therapists ready to assist. Simply ensure you have a tablet, smartphone, or computer and an internet connection - you can have access to therapy with a licensed professional at any time you need, from any location. A ReachLink therapist can steer you through the intricacies of emotions tied to rejection, depression, or anxiety.