Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Test: Free 12-Item ADHD & Emotional Sensitivity Screener

Does a neutral comment from a supervisor, an unreturned text message, or perceived coolness from a romantic partner trigger an immediate, agonizing physical ache in your chest? Do you find yourself spiraling into intense self-blame, anger, or despair, even when your rational mind recognizes that nothing catastrophic occurred? If so, you may be experiencing Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD).

Coined by renowned psychiatrist Dr. William Dodson, Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria is an extreme emotional sensitivity and psychological pain triggered by the perception-real or imagined-of being rejected, teased, criticized, or failing to meet personal high standards. While not a standalone DSM-5 category, clinical neuroscientists recognize RSD as one of the most debilitating facets of adult ADHD, autism spectrum profiles, and high-functioning anxiety.

Screen Your Vulnerability Score: Assess your emotional reactivity across social vigilance, criticism pain, and rumination: Take the Free RSD Screener.

The 3 Core Dimensions of Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria

Our interactive 12-question clinical screener isolates the three distinct neurobiological manifestations of RSD: 1. Social Hyper-Vigilance: Scanning vocal tones, facial micro-expressions, and chat response times for hidden signs of annoyance or abandonment. 2. Criticism Vulnerability: Experiencing constructive feedback or slight disapproval not as helpful suggestions, but as devastating personal indictments. 3. Catastrophic Emotional Rumination: Sinking into hours or days of agonizing shame spirals, emotional paralysis, or sudden defensive withdrawal after minor social friction.

Somatic De-Escalation Protocols for Acute RSD Episodes

Because RSD is a neurological event driven by the amygdala and autonomic nervous system rather than conscious thought, traditional talk therapy alone often fails during an acute episode. Recommended stabilization drills include: - Cold Dive Reflex (Mammalian Dive Reflex): Splash ice-cold water onto your face or hold an ice pack against your eyes and cheekbones for 30 seconds to force parasympathetic activation. - The 48-Hour Communication Embargo: Implement a strict rule never to send retaliatory texts, resign from jobs, or cut off friendships while your nervous system is in an active RSD flood. - Stanford NSDR Reset: Down-regulate autonomic hyper-arousal using our pure Web Audio Stanford NSDR Audio Lab to restore prefrontal cortex control.