What if I fail? What if I’m no good? What about the hurtful critiques and reviews? To be sure, these are questions that can plague any writer; for a writer with Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), these questions can be debilitating and can lead to the demise of their writing career, and mental health trauma, if not mitigated appropriately. Blessed as I am with ADHD, I also have a healthy dose of RSD. Research shows that nearly 100% of people with ADHD experience some level of RSD; a common link in brain chemistry is suspected to be the cause.

What is RSD?

In a 2019 Psychology Today article by Clinical Psychologist Dr. Andrea Bonier, the following definition is given, “People with Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) have an emotional reaction to negative judgments, exclusion, or criticism beyond what most people feel.” Beyond what most people feel is the key. Sometimes it can be very much beyond, and it can manifest itself in a variety of ways. Dr. Bonier, identifies common characteristics of RSD reactions as being: 

• High sensitivity about the possibility of rejection
• Overly high standards for yourself
• Feeling easily triggered toward guilt or shame
• Isolating yourself in a preemptive strike not to be rejected
• Aggressive or rageful behavior toward those who have been perceived to have slighted you
• Frequently feeling an uncomfortable physical reaction due to “not fitting in” or being misunderstood
• Self-esteem that is entirely dependent on what others think, and rises and falls accordingly
• Frequent and intense ruminating after an interaction about how you did or said something wrong

How does RSD affect writers?

As you might imagine, those characteristics could be debilitating for any faction of society, and writers are no exception. Writers, by the very nature of their work, tend to experience high levels of criticism and rejection. In 2012, NPR.org  published an article stating, “Dr. Seuss got his start ‘On Mulberry Street’ and Theodor Geisel’s first book for kids was rejected 27 times before it was finally published in 1937.” Most writers, famous or not, have similar stories to tell. Imagine now if those writers experienced the reactions listed above. How difficult it must be to continue to pour one’s heart and soul into their literary works knowing that those reactions and emotional experiences are going to happen. At the same time, it might very well be this connection to deeper feelings and emotions that gives the writers their content. If a writer, or really any content creator or artist, recognizes characteristics of RSD in themselves are they destined for a different career path? Not necessarily. There are steps that people with RSD can do to manage their symptoms.

Managing RSD

One of the most effective methods to manage the emotional reactions of RSD is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT can be custom tailored to each person’s needs, but it can also induce anxiety during the treatment process, and as such, it is best practiced under the care and supervision of a mental health professional. Some people have found relief through medications. If RSD symptoms are mild, the emotional responses may be able to be managed through techniques such as mindfulness and mediation, positive self-talk, and socio-emotional language skills. 

Being aware of RSD is a giant first step. If you recognize emotional responses like RSD in yourself, and are unsure what to do, consult a mental heath professional to determine the best path for you. In the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) writers and artists, civilization needs the human touch now more than ever. Write on!