In this episode, Ben sits down with Dr Shyamal
Mashru, Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Lead for
Adult ADHD, for a clear and compassionate deep dive into
Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD).
Often misunderstood or dismissed as being “too sensitive,” RSD is
explored here as a real, neurological experience - one that can
hijack rational thought, flood the body with emotional pain, and
quietly shape relationships, work, and self-worth. Dr Shyamal
explains what RSD is (and isn’t), how it shows up differently
across people, and why ADHD brains may be especially vulnerable.
They unpack the science, the role of trauma and hormones, why RSD
isn’t currently in the DSM, and what actually helps when
rejection hits hard.
If rejection feels overwhelming, confusing, or deeply personal -
this conversation offers clarity, relief, and language for what
you may have been carrying alone.
Join us at hidden20.org/donate.
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Host: Ben Branson
Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné
Video Editor: James Scriven
Social Media Manager: Charlie Young
Music: Jackson Greenberg
Head of Marketing: Kristen Fuller
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Dr Shyamal Mashru’s ADHD Background &
Clinical Work
03:15 What Surprises Clinicians About ADHD
Assessments
04:41 Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Explained:
What RSD Is & Why It Hurts
09:16 RSD Coping Mechanisms: Shutdown,
People-Pleasing & Avoidance
11:44 Is It RSD or Something Else? How to Tell
the Difference
15:05 The Neuroscience of RSD: Why Rational
Thinking Switches Off
17:27 RSD in Romantic Relationships &
Attachment
21:33 How to Support a Partner With Rejection
Sensitive Dysphoria
22:50 How Aware Is Society of RSD?
24:38 RSD, Hormones & ADHD: Menstrual Cycle,
Perimenopause & Menopause
26:33 Is There an Upside to RSD? Emotional Depth
& Sensitivity
29:56 Can Non-ADHD People Experience RSD?
31:55 RSD vs Trauma & Fear of Failure
34:46 Why RSD Is More Than “Not Handling
Rejection”
36:15 Why Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Isn’t in
the DSM
40:00 How RSD Shows Up in Children
41:29 Early Signs & Patterns Clinicians Look
For
42:59 How Common Is RSD in ADHD — and When It
Appears
46:20 Treating RSD: Therapy, Medication &
Regulation
56:18 The One Thing Dr Shyamal Would Change
About RSD Awareness
The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD entrepreneur, Ben
Branson.
Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees
neurodivergence.
No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.
1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet
too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without
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To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep
showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing
stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and
research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people
turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about
brilliant brains.
With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep
fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.
Join us at hidden20.org/donate.
Become a monthly donor.
Be part of our community where great minds think differently.
Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348
______________
Follow & subscribe…
Website: www.hidden20.org
Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity
Ben Branson @seedlip_ben
Dr Shymal Mashru @adhdhealthclinic
www.adhdhealthclinic.co.uk
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