Episode 26 - Sharing Discomfort: A Candid Conversation on Rejection When Plans Fall Through Artwork

Grandma Has ADHD

Welcome to “Grandma Has ADHD,” the podcast dedicated to exploring the unique challenges and experiences of seniors living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and referred by some as ADD. We’ll provide valuable insights, expert advice, and personal stories to help older adults, their families, and caregivers navigate the journey of managing ADHD in later life mixed with a little humor and real life, unedited examples of navigating life with ADHD.

Whether you are a senior who suspects you may have ADHD or love an ADHD Senior, “Grandma Has ADHD” embraces the saying “Making the rest of your life, the BEST of your life” and is here to provide you with the information, support, and resources you need to thrive.

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Grandma Has ADHD

Episode 26 - Sharing Discomfort: A Candid Conversation on Rejection When Plans Fall Through

March 11, 2025 • Jami Shapiro • Episode 26

Ever felt like rejection stings more than it should? You’re not alone. In this special episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro explores Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)—or rather, rejection sensitivity—and how it deeply affects individuals with ADHD. After an unexpected guest no-shows, Jami takes the opportunity to reflect on her own experiences with rejection sensitivity.

Jami shares personal experiences, childhood memories, and real-life examples of how rejection sensitivity has shaped her relationships, career, and self-perception. She also explores how this heightened emotional response can create anxiety, self-doubt, and social challenges—especially for those who were diagnosed with ADHD later in life.

In this episode:

[00:02:00] Why Jami prefers using "rejection sensitivity" instead of "rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD).
[00:05:00] Definition of Rejection Sensitivity, its symptoms, and how it impacts people with ADHD.
[00:07:00] Jami shares childhood memories and how rejection sensitivity shaped her self-esteem and relationships.
[00:10:00] She explains how rejection sensitivity influenced her career, from real estate to entrepreneurship.
[00:15:00] Jami reflects on how rejection sensitivity has affected her relationships with her parents, children, and partner.
[00:21:00] Jami shares ways to handle rejection sensitivity, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and developing coping mechanisms
[00:28:00] Jami emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, finding supportive communities, and embracing ADHD as part of one's identity.

Resources Mentioned:

Small Talk by Roxanne & Richard Pink – A book about how ADHD individuals talk to themselves and manage self-esteem.
ADD Coaches Academy (ADCCA) – A resource for ADHD coaching and personal transformation programs.
Box Breathing Technique – A method for emotional regulation (inhale-hold-exhale-hold for counts of four or even counts).
Mark Twain’s "Eat the Frog" Method – Tackling the hardest tasks first.
Silver Linings Transitions – Jami’s business which offers move management and home organization services in San Diego.

Thank you for joining us for this episode of Grandma Has ADHD! We hope Jami's journey and insights into ADHD shed light on the unique challenges faced by older adults. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll explore helpful resources, share personal stories, and provide guidance for those navigating ADHD. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this podcast with friends who might benefit. Remember, Make the rest of your life the best of your life.

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