E283: When Simple Questions Feel Like A Personal Attack: The Gas Tank Fight

Why does one tiny question sometimes feel like a full-body emotional attack?

In this episode, I'm walking you through a very ordinary moment that turned into a huge realization for me: my husband asking why my gas tank was almost empty. Not a fight. Not a disaster. Just a question. But internally? My brain immediately launched into anxiety, defensiveness, shame, overexplaining, and mental gymnastics before he even finished speaking.

And honestly, I think so many of us with ADHD do this all day long without even realizing it.

I'm sharing what came up for me emotionally, how old childhood narratives around being "careless" still show up in everyday situations, and the exact neuroplasticity exercise I'm practicing to change those automatic responses. We talk about slowing down your stress response, recognizing the physical sensations tied to anxiety, and intentionally replacing old shame-based beliefs with sturdier, kinder truths.

Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) does not have to rule your emotions! With time, I've shifted my responses so that I'm able to separate from roller coaster feelings.

This episode is deeply personal, practical, and validating for anyone who feels exhausted from constantly preparing to defend themselves. You are not broken, Mama. Your brain learned patterns, and your brain can learn new ones, too.

Find links to everything mentioned in this episode & read the transcript here: https://www.patriciasung.com/podcast/episode-283-rsd-when-simple-questions-feel-like-personal-attack

Links mentioned in this episode: Fill in a virtual coffee chat request to ask more about ADHD Coaching with Patricia.

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Our 5th annual all-inclusive ADHD Moms Weekend Retreat is coming up October 16-18, 2026 just outside of Houston, Texas! And I hope you're coming!

I'll take care of all the details - you simply show up and enjoy.

Put it on your calendar now.

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