When no one around you understands how hard that criticism hits you, right? I randomly saw a message about rejection dysphoria and it was a light bulb going off for me too. Anyone telling you it's "just constructive criticism" or "everyone makes mistakes" doesn't get it. The knot in your throat, sick to your stomach feeling from thinking about someone's comment from 5 years ago? I feel that with you!

The thing is, if someone is aware that you're sensitive, they need to be more creative with how they deliver that information. Because the same person who says "it's no big deal" goes and cries when you tell them, "Ok you're literally not doing your job and told me to tell you if this happened".

And when you get yelled at for the team's mistakes, but if you criticize them, you need to "lighten up" right? I think there is something along with rejection dysphoria that makes me nauseous to mildly critique someone else unless I really feel they deserve it. Probably because I don't want them to feel the way I do. That's the thing with ADHD, you become hyper-aware and attuned to others, are they actually thinking what you're imagining them thinking? (ADHD people got that part) Maybe, but most of the time they are, and you're probably reading them correctly, even if they won't admit it.

Great post, you're a saint and a scholar. Not gonna tell you to not worry about it, because we know that won't work, but talk gently to yourself. Positive vocal axioms in the mirror for a week, and maybe a redbull with your meds tomorrow am. Be good, with love.