Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria | Ep. 55

Why does rejection hurt so much when you have ADHD? And why can even the smallest signs of disapproval send you into a spiral of overthinking, shame, and self-doubt? In this episode of Two Dudes Talkin' Therapy, clinical psychologists Dr. Jacob Ambrose (Dr. Jay) and Dr. Vincent Barbieri (Dr. V) explore Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), the connection between ADHD and childhood rejection, and how to heal from years of feeling misunderstood. From emotional neglect and people-pleasing to anxious attachment, masking, and emotional dysregulation, we explore why people with ADHD may become especially sensitive to rejection — and why healing involves more than simply learning to tolerate criticism. We also introduce an important distinction: separating your ADHD wiring from the wounds you've developed along the way. Because healing isn't about changing who you are. It's about learning to accept your differences without carrying the shame that may have developed around them. CHAPTERS 00:00 Why Rejection Hurts So Much With ADHD 00:42 What Is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)? 01:30 Why ADHD Can Make Rejection Feel More Intense 04:07 How Childhood Rejection Leads to ADHD Masking 06:43 The Hidden Signs of Rejection You Might Be Missing 08:00 ADHD, Emotional Neglect & Childhood Shame 09:31 Why People With ADHD Feel Like Something Is Wrong With Them 11:16 Separating ADHD Wiring From Childhood Wounds 14:00 The ADHD Brain Explained: Train vs. Car 18:27 Why People With ADHD Struggle With Self-Acceptance 20:51 ADHD Masking, People-Pleasing & Fear of Rejection 25:53 How to Manage Emotional Dysregulation With ADHD 28:37 ADHD, Anxious Attachment & Relationship Anxiety 29:15 Avoidant Attachment, ADHD & Fear of Vulnerability 31:15 How ADHD and Anxious Attachment Connect to Limerence 33:49 Why Healing Rejection Sensitivity Starts With Self-Acceptance 35:48 How to Stop Rejecting Yourself and Start Healing CONNECT WITH US Watch more episodes and access exclusive content on Patreon 👉 https://www.patreon.com/2dudestalkintherapy Subscribe for more conversations about ADHD, complex trauma, attachment, emotional neglect, and healing. DISCLAIMER This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional psychological or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is a commonly used descriptive term and is not a standalone DSM-5-TR diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for individualized guidance. #ADHD #RejectionSensitiveDysphoria #RSD