What Is Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria?

Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) is a condition often linked to ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence. It involves an intense emotional response to perceived or actual rejection, criticism, or failure — even in situations where no rejection was intended.

People with RSD may experience:

• Deep emotional pain after minor criticism
• Fear of being unloved or abandoned
• Strong reactions to perceived disapproval
• Shame spirals or emotional shutdowns

While RSD isn’t a formal diagnosis in the DSM-5, it’s a widely recognized experience in the neurodivergent community — and it can deeply affect romantic relationships.

How RSD Impacts Romantic Relationships

In intimate partnerships, the effects of RSD can be confusing and painful for both partners. The person with RSD may experience overwhelming emotions even from neutral or well-intentioned feedback, while the other partner may feel like they’re “walking on eggshells” or constantly reassuring.

Common relationship struggles include:

• Overreacting to small disagreements
• Fear of abandonment leading to clinginess or withdrawal
• Misinterpreting tone or intent as criticism
• Difficulty resolving conflict without escalation
• Constant need for reassurance and validation

Over time, these patterns can lead to resentment, emotional burnout, and disconnection — especially if neither partner understands what’s really going on.

The RSD-Reassurance Cycle

One of the most common dynamics seen in RSD-affected relationships is the reassurance cycle: one partner feels rejected and reacts strongly; the other partner feels confused or pressured to fix things quickly; both feel drained.

Without tools to identify and manage RSD reactions, this cycle can repeat and deepen the emotional wounds on both sides.

Key signs you may be in the reassurance cycle:

• Constantly needing your partner to affirm love or loyalty
• Apologizing even when no real harm was done
• Avoiding honest communication to prevent upsetting your partner
• Emotional shutdown or withdrawal after conflict

Understanding this cycle is the first step toward healing it.

How Couples Therapy Can Help with RSD

If Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria is impacting your relationship, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to fix it alone either. Couples therapy can help you break harmful patterns and rebuild trust, clarity, and emotional safety.

Here’s how therapy can support RSD-affected relationships:

• Naming the issue: A therapist can help both partners understand RSD as a neurobiological response, not a character flaw.
• Building communication skills: Learn how to express needs and feedback without triggering defensiveness or shame.
• Creating emotional safety: Rebuild trust by understanding each other’s triggers and coping styles.
• Developing self-soothing strategies: The partner with RSD can learn tools for regulating emotions before spiraling.
• Balancing validation and boundaries: Therapy helps partners meet each other’s emotional needs without over-functioning or burning out.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Reach out to Christa Patel, LMSW (under clinical supervision of Lisa Delaplace LCSW-S) for support.