Paris Hilton: RSD is a demon in my mind

Socialite Paris Hilton recently shared candid details about her diagnosis of rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD). She described the condition as akin to 'a demon in your mind,' capable of inflicting severe emotional pain stemming from perceived rejection or failure.

Hilton first received an ADHD diagnosis in her late twenties before discovering she also had RSD. Experts from The Cleveland Clinic explain RSD is linked to ADHD, suggesting differences in brain structure impact the regulation of rejection-related emotions, intensifying them significantly.

Living with RSD, Hilton explained, means experiencing negative perceptions as physical pain, even when they are not real. She is now focused on learning more about RSD and spreading awareness, aiming to empower individuals by showing that it doesn't have to be a hindrance but can be harnessed as a strength.

She noted that discussions with other individuals managing ADHD and RSD have been beneficial. Hilton reflected on the intense pain she experienced throughout her life, particularly during the media scrutiny of the 2000s, exacerbated by her undiagnosed ADHD and RSD.

Hilton believes that societal and medical focus on ADHD, especially for females, was lacking during her youth. This lack of understanding negatively impacted her education, making it difficult to retain information and often leading to trouble. She now views her conditions as a driving force behind her entrepreneurial success.

The Cleveland Clinic clarifies that RSD is not an officially recognized medical condition and research is limited. Healthcare providers may suspect it based on symptoms and co-occurring conditions like ADHD, but may not diagnose it due to unfamiliarity or misdiagnosis. While not dangerous on its own, RSD is linked to anxiety and depression, increasing risks of self-harm or suicide.