In this bonus episode of Two Women Chatting, Michelle speaks with Alex Partridge, host of ADHD Chatter podcast and author of Why Does Everybody Hate Me? Living and Loving with Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria.
Together they explore Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) - an intense emotional response to perceived criticism or rejection that is commonly experienced by people with ADHD or autism. Alex shares personal insights into how RSD can shape relationships, self-confidence and everyday interactions.
Alex explains that RSD is one of the most challenging aspects of living with ADHD. Even small comments or situations - like a boss asking for a quick chat - can trigger overwhelming anxiety and catastrophic thinking. These reactions are often rooted in years of criticism or misunderstanding during childhood.
For many people, RSD can cause powerful emotional responses that feel disproportionate to the situation. Feelings of sadness, anger or panic can escalate quickly, creating a cycle of shame and regret once the emotional response has passed.
Michelle and Alex discuss how RSD can affect both personal and professional relationships. When feedback feels like a personal attack, people may react defensively or impulsively - quitting jobs, withdrawing from relationships or later apologising for emotional reactions they feel embarrassed about.
Alex highlights how many people with RSD develop people-pleasing behaviours in an attempt to avoid rejection. While it can feel protective in the moment, constantly prioritising other people’s needs can lead to unhealthy dynamics and difficulty setting boundaries.
The conversation also touches on the unique challenges faced by women with ADHD, many of whom are diagnosed later in life. Alex emphasises the importance of giving women a stronger voice in the neurodiversity conversation, particularly around hormonal changes and how ADHD can present differently for women.
• Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria can trigger intense emotional reactions to perceived criticism.
• These reactions can create a cycle of shame that affects relationships and self-confidence.
• People-pleasing is a common coping strategy but can lead to unhealthy patterns.
• Women with ADHD often face unique challenges and are frequently diagnosed later in life.
Through his honesty and advocacy, Alex Partridge helps bring greater understanding to RSD and offers reassurance to anyone who has struggled with feeling overwhelmed by criticism or rejection.
Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria, ADHD, neurodiversity, mental health awareness, emotional intelligence, Alex Partridge, women and ADHD.
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