THE FIVE MINUTE
RSD
Checklist
DR. MEGAN ANNA NEFF, PSY.D.
The Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria Checklist
What is Rejection Sensitivity Disorder?
RSD CHECKLIST
Not everyone experiences rejection
sensitive dysphoria, but we all
understand what it's like to be sensitive
to rejection. Think of it as a part of being
human, connected to our strong need to
belong. It's like two sides of a coin – one
side is feeling sensitive to rejection, and
the other is our strong desire to belong.
Think of RSD like an emotional amplifier —it turns feelings up to the max,
making them much stronger. To cope, people might avoid situations that
make these feelings flare up, trying to dodge the resulting distress.
Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) offers insight into why certain people
experience perceived rejection and criticism with such intensity. RSD
represents an intensified form of sensitivity, magnifying the fear of
rejection to a degree it becomes unbearable (dysphoria comes from the
Greek word meaning "difficult to bear").
As you go through the checklist, check the items that resonate with you.
Although not official, if they resonate, you might have Rejection Sensitive
Dysphoria (RSD). Discussing these feelings with your doctor and exploring
RSD resources can help in managing it. Feel free to use this as a starting
point for your journey of self-discovery.
Warmly,
Dr. Neff
©Dr. Neff | www.neurodivergentinsights.com
The Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria Checklist
The Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Checklist
My emotional response to perceived rejection is much
stronger than what others might experience.
I am regularly preoccupied with the idea of being
rejected or criticized.
My relationships have suffered due to my sensitivity to
rejection.
Feelings of worthlessness or shame are frequent
companions.
I tend to avoid situations where rejection might
occur.
Even constructive criticism hits me deeply, causing
significant emotional distress.
I notice rapid shifts in my mood based on interactions
with others.
I struggle to maintain focus, productivity, or functioning in
various aspects of my life due to the emotional impact of
sensitivity to perceived rejection.
©Dr. Neff | www.neurodivergentinsights.com
©Dr. Neff | www.neurodivergentinsights.com
The Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria Checklist
The Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Checklist
I often feel highly sensitive to criticism or perceived
rejection.
The fear of rejection often deters me from trying
new things or taking risks.
I have developed coping mechanisms to safeguard
myself from potential rejection, like people-pleasing or
isolation.
My anxiety levels escalate significantly when
anticipating social interactions or evaluations.
Criticism or rejection from others deeply affects my
self-image.
I frequently apologize unnecessarily to evade potential
conflict or disapproval.
Expressing my emotions and boundaries can be difficult due
to the fear of rejection.
I experience physical symptoms such as muscle
tension, rapid heartbeat, or stomachaches when facing
potential rejection.
©Dr. Neff | www.neurodivergentinsights.com
©Dr. Neff | www.neurodivergentinsights.com
8 CHARACTERISTICS
OF RSD
Intense Emotions
RSD magnifies emotions, often
leading to strong reactions that may seem excessive
Quick Mood Changes
Those with RSD experience rapid
shifts in their emotions, triggered by perceived rejection
Physical Sensations
Emotional pain in RSD can
manifest as physical discomfort
Negative Self-Image
RSD can lower self-esteem
due to frequent feelings of inadequacy
8 CHARACTERISTICS
OF RSD
People with RSD closely analyze Social Cue Scrutiny
social cues, sometimes misinterpreting
innocent gestures as signs of rejection
Emotional Turbulence
RSD causes emotional storms, with
intense bouts of sadness, anger, or frustration
Avoidance of Social Situations
Many with RSD avoid social
interactions due to fear of rejection or criticism
Work Impact In professional settings, RSD may
lead to avoidance of situations involving
critique, hindering career advancement
The Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria Checklist
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Check out the Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria Bundle
https://neurodivergentinsights.com/neurodivergentstore/p/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-bundle
You'll learn all about RSD and practices for better managing it.
©Dr. Neff | www.neurodivergentinsights.com
