ADHD Chatter Bitesize: Strategies to manage RSD in relationships & at work
Aug 23, 2024
Matt Gupwell, a Neurodiversity Consultant specializing in Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), joins to tackle the emotional challenges of RSD in relationships and at work. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing feelings of shame to foster support. The conversation dives into emotional maturity, open communication, and mutual growth in relationships affected by RSD. Listeners learn effective strategies for managing rejection sensitivity in personal settings and workplace environments, highlighting the value of psychological safety and constructive dialogue.
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Use Removal As A Safety Valve
- Acknowledge embarrassment but explain RSD is not deliberate and you need space to calm down.
- Tell your partner you will remove yourself, apologise briefly, then return calmer to prevent escalation and protect the relationship.
Decades Of Partnership Built Tolerance
- Matt Gupwell describes decades-long personal experience where his wife learned to recognise and tolerate RSD reactions.
- That long familiarity created emotional maturity and allowed healthier management strategies to develop.
Practice Cold Light Debriefs
- Prepare with your partner outside triggers: agree that reactions aren't personal and practice calming strategies.
- Teach them to assume goodwill and rehearse factual debriefs after incidents to rebuild safety.