Rejection is something we all have to face in life — at work, in relationships, in friendships, even in small everyday interactions. It’s everywhere!
Why ADHD Makes Rejection Harder
If you have ADHD, you may think Why do I feel so strongly when being rejected? Well, feelings are normal… after all… everyone has them. However, a Recent research reveals that those with ADHD have significantly more difficulty with low frustration tolerance, impatience, hot temper, and excitability than a neurotypical.
I’ve had moments where a simple “no” felt like proof that I wasn’t good enough. Looking back, I can see it wasn’t the rejection itself — it was how my brain interpreted it. And that mindset can change how you view rejection.
Yes, it’s true that you can’t change the way you are and just ‘turn down’ your feelings. But understanding why this happens and learning new habits to cope is something that is possible.
Not only is this is it completely normal if you have ADHD, but there is a name for this! It’s called Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria. So no, it’s not all in your head!
This is very much a real thing. It’s an intense emotional reaction to real or perceived rejection. And it can make you feel like your sense of self is under attack.
After The Rejection – Steps You Can Take
In the midst of all the emotions you may be feeling -anger, frustration, feelings of low self-worth – you mustn’t neglect yourself even though it can be tempting to stay and rot in bed.
Be kinder to yourself than you have ever been before
Why is this so important? Well, because our brains (negative nelly thoughts) are being particularly hard on us during this time.
Whether the rejection is little or life-changing, the feelings and negative thoughts will persist. And overthinking the situation will happen, no matter how busy you keep yourself.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
• Surround yourself with good vibes
• Feel the feels ( have a good cry)
• Talk to someone about it – get it all out
• Get out in nature to step away from the trigger
• Keep taking steps forward, not back
• Remind yourself that this is happening for a reason
And remind yourself that this may be happening for a reason. To make space for something greater to enter your life. This can help immensely when that rejection feels like the worst thing that could have happened to you, when in reality it was probably for the best.
Another exercise you can do is to separate fact from the story your mind is making up. Here’s an example
FACT: They declined my job application
STORY: ” I’m never going to be able to get a job” OR ” I’m not good enough.”
But something I CAN guarantee you is that the intensity will pass. Just like a storm, it always does.
And every time it does, you build proof that you can survive it.
And keep practicing that self-love, never give up on it because that’s what will help you the most when rejection comes your way again.
If this has helped you navigate a difficult time or even informed you at all, sign up for my weekly newsletter. I’d love to have you there!