One of the toughest parts of ADHD is left out of the diagnosis
Summary
Psychiatrist Sasha Hamdani discusses rejection-sensitive dysphoria, a severe emotional response to criticism often linked to ADHD but absent from the DSM. She explains the neurological basis of RSD, where a hyperactive amygdala and underactive prefrontal cortex create a delayed logical response to perceived threats. The episode explores why this aspect of ADHD was historically overlooked and how it leads to misdiagnosis. Hamdani shares practical coping strategies from her book, Too Sensitive, emphasizing that understanding the brain’s mechanics helps patients manage their emotional dysregul…
Topics discussed
Sponsor: University at Buffalo AI research
Sasha Hamdani's story: from pediatrics to psychiatry
Defining Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)
Sponsor breaks: NetSuite, Edward Jones, Capella
Brain mechanics: Amygdala vs Prefrontal Cortex
Why emotional regulation was excluded from ADHD criteria
Clinician awareness and misdiagnosis risks
Efforts to update the DSM and public advocacy
Diagnosis via pattern recognition and treatment options
Practical coping skills and the 'Too Sensitive' book
Closing remarks and production credits
Sponsor breaks: Capella University and Bombas
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