ADHD, Emotional Dysregulation, and Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria: 9 Things to Know

The DSM-5-TR defines ADHD as having two domains: inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. These diagnostic criteria, however, fail to capture how ADHD leads to emotional and cognitive dysregulation.

Many of my ADHD clients’ most significant struggle is emotional dysregulation - not distractibility. Unfortunately, this oversight has led to a gap in intervention. What intervention improves the emotional lives of ADHDers?

In this lecture, Dr. William Dodson, describes ADHD as part emotional disorder. If you’re busy, here are a few key takeaways.

1. People with ADHD fundamentally think in a different way than do neurotypical people.

2. Rejection sensitive dysphoria can deeply affect one's self-esteem and relationships, making it difficult to feel valued and gratified.

3. People with ADHD struggle with emotional dysregulation, which can be the most impairing aspect of the syndrome, affecting their ability to express and control their emotions.

4. Rejection sensitive dysphoria is a common experience for people with ADHD, where the emotional response to perceived rejection is much more intense than it should be.

5. People with ADHD don't see their own emotions and actions coming, making traditional therapies largely ineffective in helping them control their expression.

6. When asking about rejection sensitive dysphoria, it's important to ask if the person has always been much more sensitive than other people to rejection, teasing, criticism, or their own perception of failure.

7. Rejection sensitive dysphoria can lead to suicidal thinking and misdiagnosis of major depression.

8. Emotional dysregulation can present as externalized rage directed at the person or situation that caused the intense emotional response.

9. ADHD and rejection sensitivity have limited research. The Cleveland Clinic has found success in treating ADHD emotional dysregulation with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Are you wondering if you experiencing ADHD Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria?

You’re not alone. Awareness of ADHD is growing, and many adults and parents from Austin to Killeen and Belton are realizing they or their loved ones do not have to be misunderstood. Fortunately, I am an experienced testing psychologist who is up-to-date on evidence-based and neuro-affirming assessment and support.

A good evaluation leads to a plan of action to help you or your loved one live their best life. If you’re interested in learning more, contact me today for a free 15-minute conversation about the change you or your loved one deserves.