Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria and ADHD
As a parent coach who specializes in supporting families with children who have ADHD, I've worked with many parents who are struggling to help their child manage their emotions around criticism and rejection. One family in particular stands out to me as an example of how coaching can make a real difference in a child's life.
When this family first came to me, they were at their wit's end. Their child was struggling with intense emotions around criticism and rejection, and even small things could send them into a spiral of self-doubt and despair. The parents didn't know how to help their child and were worried about the impact this was having on their self-esteem and wellbeing.
We started by exploring the parents' thoughts and feelings around their child's struggles. Through our conversations, I helped them understand that their child's reactions were a normal response to the challenges they were facing. We talked about how they could create a safe and supportive environment for their child at home and at school, and how they could use positive affirmations and other techniques to help build their resilience.
Over time, the parents started to see progress in their child's emotional wellbeing. They felt more confident in their ability to support their child and were grateful for the support and guidance they received through coaching.
If you have child who you suspect might have RSD, here are some strategies that you can start using right away to support your child:
Validate your child's feelings: Let your child know that it's okay to feel upset and overwhelmed by criticism and rejection. Avoid dismissing their emotions or telling them to "just get over it." Instead, offer empathy and support.
Teach your child coping skills: Work with your child to develop coping skills that they can use when they feel overwhelmed. This could include deep breathing exercises, visualization, or other relaxation techniques.
Build a strong support network: Help your child build a network of trusted adults who they can turn to for support and guidance. This could include a therapist, a coach, a teacher, or a mentor.
Use positive affirmations: Encourage your child to use positive affirmations to build their self-esteem and confidence. These could include statements like "I am strong and capable" or "I am worthy of love and respect."
If you're the parent of a child with ADHD who is struggling with Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria, I want you to know that you're not alone. With the right support and guidance, your child’s struggle can become their biggest strength. As a parent coach at Consciously Connected Coaching, I'm here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family.
