Method

The 24-hour rule for an RSD hit

There's no cure for an RSD hit, but space works: name it ('this is RSD'), say nothing in the moment, and defer the reaction — if it still matters in a day, then raise it.

This page isn't typically flagged for the selected profile — shown because you opened it directly.

A high emotional spike shuts down the logical/executive brain, so any in-the-moment reaction will be disproportionate. Create space between awareness and reaction: when you feel the sting of rejection/criticism, first name it (‘this is RSD’), say nothing in the heat of it, and defer the reaction.

Use a 24-hour rule: ‘if I still feel this strongly in a day, then I’ll talk to the person about it — until then I park it and sit with the feeling’. To start, even a 3-4 hour delay works, which you gradually lengthen. The delay lets the logical brain come back online before you respond.

Helps with

Resources & links

6 sources

What the research says

Scientific grade verified against the literature. No entries = no direct studies (graded from mechanism/experience).

What the grade means

A A — strongest evidence: meta-analyses or RCTs directly confirm it works (or, for diagnostic tools, strong validation of accuracy).

B B — good evidence: a single RCT, or a strong mechanism with supporting studies.

C C — weak / preliminary: a plausible mechanism, but few direct, controlled tests.

D D — no evidence: theory or isolated anecdotes, no studies.

Applies to: ADHD AuDHD