Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) Test
Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) is the intense, sometimes physical pain that real or perceived rejection, criticism or failure can trigger — most often described by people with ADHD. This free, private self-report helps you gauge how strongly it shows up for you. About two minutes, and it stays on your device.
For each statement, choose how often it’s true for you.
1Criticism — even gentle or constructive — can hit me like a physical blow.
About this test
A structured self-report checklist based on how rejection sensitive dysphoria is described in the ADHD literature. RSD is not a standalone clinical diagnosis, so this is a reflective screen rather than a diagnostic test.
How the score works
Each answer scores from 0 (never) to 4 (very often) and the total sets your band. The bands are a plain guide to how often you recognised these experiences. They are not a validated cut-off and cannot show whether you have a condition.
Sources and further reading
Written by the Nurtured Coach team. Last updated 2 November 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Is rejection sensitive dysphoria a real condition?
RSD describes a well-recognised experience — an extreme emotional response to perceived rejection or criticism — most often discussed in relation to ADHD. It isn’t a standalone diagnosis in the DSM-5, so this is a reflective self-report rather than a diagnostic test.
Is RSD always linked to ADHD?
Not always, but the two are strongly associated. If you score high here, it can be worth exploring whether ADHD is part of the picture with a professional.
What helps with RSD?
Understanding the pattern is the first step. Many people find ADHD-informed coaching, therapy, and sometimes medication (via a clinician) reduce how much RSD runs the show. This screen is a starting point, not medical advice.
