Rejection: Empowering Kids through RSD Challenges.

RSD - Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria.

What is it?
RSD, or Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria, is an emotional response that individuals, particularly those with ADHD, experience in response to perceived rejection, criticism, or failure. People with RSD may have an extreme emotional reaction to situations that others might perceive as minor.

Symptoms of RSD?

1. Emotional Intensity: People with RSD often experience intense emotional reactions to perceived rejection or criticism, which can lead to feelings of sadness, anger, or even physical discomfort.
2. Avoidance Behaviours: People with RSD might develop avoidance strategies to prevent situations that trigger their emotional responses, which can impact their friendships and professional life.
3. Heightened Sensitivity: RSD can cause heightened sensitivity to social cues, making it challenging to navigate social interactions without experiencing emotional distress.

What is the impact of RSD for a child:

1. Emotional Rollercoaster:
   • Big Feelings: RSD makes feelings feel big, like having a giant wave of emotions. Sometimes, little things can make them feel very sad or upset, even if others don’t understand why.
   • Worry Monster: It makes them scared that people might not like them or might say mean things, even if they don’t mean to hurt them.
   • Feeling Left Out: RSD can make kids feel left out, like the don’t belong, even when they're with friends. It's like feeling lonely in a crowded room.

2. Making Friends Can Be Tricky:
   • Trust: Sometimes, it's hard to trust new friends because kids worry they might not understand them.
   • Friendship Fears: RSD can make kids fear friendships because they worry about being laughed at or left out. It’s like being scared to join a game because they fear losing or making a mistake.
   • Feeling Different: RSD can make kids feel different from other kids. They might want to be like everyone else, but this fear holds them back, making it hard to be themselves.

3. Feeling Brave in School:
   • Feedback Fears: Sometimes, hearing feedback from teachers can be really scary. RSD can make them worry about making mistakes, even when learning. 
   • Speaking Up: RSD can make it tough to raise their hand in class or share their ideas. 
   • Being Proud: Every day your child faces RSD is a big achievement!

As a parent, how can we help our children?

• Communication: Encourage your child to express their feelings openly. Create a safe and non-judgmental environment where they feel comfortable sharing their emotions.
• Validate Emotions: Acknowledge your child's feelings and let them know that it's okay to feel the way they do. Validating their emotions helps them feel understood and accepted.
• Talk to your child: Ask them, what evidence do they have that they have been rejected? Ask them, what else could be going on for their friend who they think is rejecting them?  Ask them, is there anything else going on that they could mean they are being extra sensitive / angry / frustrated / whatever emotion they are feeling.
• Develop Coping Strategies: Help your child develop healthy coping mechanisms, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or engaging in creative activities, to manage overwhelming emotions.
• Social Skills Training: Problem solve with your child on appropriate ways to respond to rejection or criticism. Role-playing scenarios can be helpful.
• Encourage Self-Compassion: Teach your child self-compassion and self-acceptance. Help them understand that everyone makes mistakes and faces rejection at times.

Every child is unique, so it's essential to adapt your approach based on your child's individual needs and preferences. Patience, understanding, and unconditional love are powerful tools in helping your child navigate the challenges of RSD.

Have a beautiful week!

Alison xx