How Do You Handle Rejection-Sensitive Dysphoria in the Workplace?

PostedSeptember 19, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 22, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

If a minor critique leaves you spiralling, or a casual remark feels overwhelming, you may be experiencing ADHD rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD). It is not just being sensitive, it is a deep, emotional response to perceived rejection or failure, common in people with ADHD. In the workplace, RSD can affect how you handle feedback, navigate relationships, and maintain workplace confidence even when your performance is strong.

Coping Strategies That Support Emotional Balance

Here is how to manage emotional intensity and build healthier responses at work through practical coping strategies and better emotional regulation:

Pause before reacting

RSD triggers are often fast and overwhelming. Taking even a few seconds to breathe, write down your thoughts, or step away can reduce impulsive responses and bring perspective.

Reality-check your assumptions

Ask yourself: “What do I know, and what do I feel?” This helps you separate facts from emotions, a vital skill for easing workplace anxiety.

Seek feedback proactively

Regular, constructive input from trusted colleagues can build a more balanced sense of how you are doing, reducing the sting of unexpected criticism.

Use affirmations and self-reflection tools

Keep a record of positive feedback or wins. Returning to this during emotional dips can help restore your sense of worth and remind you of your capability.

Working with a therapist or ADHD coach and targeted support can help you build emotional resilience and reframe how you process rejection or disapproval in a professional setting.

Managing ADHD rejection-sensitive dysphoria is about protecting your confidence, not avoiding challenge. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and emotional regulation tools tailored to ADHD.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Workplace challenges.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.