How parents can support their teens to naviagate ADHD and RSD
How Parents Can Help Their Teens with ADHD and RSD, Especially When It Comes to Friendships
As a parent, watching your teen struggle to make or keep friendships can be heart-wrenching.
For teens with ADHD, this challenge is often magnified by symptoms like impulsivity, emotional sensitivity, and Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD).
If your child seems extra sensitive to rejection—taking things personally, avoiding social situations, or getting overwhelmed by criticism—they could be experiencing RSD.
So, what do we do as a parent when we spot this happening
Tips for Supporting Teens with ADHD and Rejection Sensitivity
1. Understand Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)
RSD isn’t just a typical feeling of disappointment. It’s an intense reaction to perceived rejection or criticism, even if none was intended. Teens with RSD might see minor conflicts as major rejections. Validate their feelings—listen and empathise without minimising their experience. When emotions settle, gently help them gain perspective.
2. Teach Emotional Regulation
Teens with ADHD often struggle to manage emotions, especially with RSD. Introduce calming strategies like deep breathing, mindfulness, or grounding techniques. Encourage them to pause before reacting to conflicts. These skills take time, but practising together helps them apply them in real life.
3. Encourage Open Communication
Let them know they can talk to you anytime. When they feel rejected, give them space to process emotions without rushing to fix things. Ask open-ended questions like, “How did that make you feel?” This helps them reflect without getting stuck in negative thinking.
4. Help Identify Good Friends
Discuss what makes a good friend—someone who listens, supports, and accepts them. Encourage them to seek friendships based on shared interests and mutual respect. Even one or two solid friendships can make a big difference.
5. Model Positive Social Behavior
Teens notice how you interact with others. Show them how to handle conflicts, apologise when needed, and express emotions healthily. Your behaviour sets a powerful example for navigating relationships.
6. Support Their Interests
Hobbies like sports, art, or gaming offer natural ways to connect with others. Encourage them to pursue activities they enjoy, where friendships can form more easily and with less pressure.
7. Be Patient and Realistic
Social skills take time to develop, especially for teens with ADHD. Expect setbacks but celebrate small wins, like resolving a conflict or making a new friend. Patience and encouragement will boost their confidence to keep trying.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed as a parent and would like some extra support, I’d love to help. I coach people who feel stuck in the chaos of life—both with and without ADHD—helping them find clarity, balance, and a way forward that actually works for them. If you’re curious about how coaching could support you, get in touch—I’d love to chat.
