ADHD, Anxiety, and Self-Worth: Creativity, Comparison, and Mental Health with Caroline Moorin
How can ADHD, anxiety, depression, bullying, and comparison shape a young adult’s sense of identity and self-worth? In this episode, licensed professional counselor Josh Korac speaks with Caroline Moorin about her experiences with ADHD, anxiety, depression, medication, relationships, and building a creative life through fashion. Caroline was diagnosed with ADHD at age 12 and shares how difficulties with focus, productivity, insecurity, and feeling different affected her childhood and adolescence. She discusses the impact of bullying, social comparison, and negative experiences in high school, as well as the role supportive friendships and professional help played in her growth. Josh and Caroline also explore the overlap between ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Caroline reflects on trying medication, experiencing unwanted side effects, and learning that mental health treatment may require patience, communication, and adjustment. They discuss the importance of working with qualified professionals rather than assuming one treatment approach will fit everyone. The conversation also looks at creativity as a source of identity, expression, and emotional support. Caroline shares how fashion and art helped her feel more grounded and gave her a sense of control during difficult periods. She describes starting Dazed Vintage, a sustainable vintage clothing business, and the fulfillment and pressure that can come with turning a personal passion into a business. Caroline also speaks openly about trust, relationships, negative beliefs, and the process of learning to take her own feelings seriously. Josh and Caroline discuss self-acceptance, grief, gratitude, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who reinforce that you are worthy of love, kindness, and respect. In this episode, you will learn about: • ADHD in childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood • The overlap between ADHD, anxiety, and depression • How bullying and comparison can affect self-esteem • Challenges with focus, motivation, and productivity • Medication side effects and communicating with providers • Therapy, support, and finding the right treatment • Creativity and fashion as forms of self-expression • Sustainable fashion and starting a small business • Trust issues and relationship difficulties • Coping with negative thoughts and beliefs • Self-acceptance, grief, gratitude, and finding joy • Building relationships that support your mental health Caroline Moorin is an Indiana University graduate with a background in media advertising, marketing, business, and sales. She is the founder of Dazed Vintage, a sustainable vintage clothing brand, and has worked in the fashion industry in New York City. Follow Caroline at @caroline.moorin and Dazed Vintage at @dazedvintagexcarol. Josh Korac is a licensed professional counselor in Colorado who specializes in trauma, family estrangement, loneliness, and complex relationship concerns. He is also the Lead Moderator of Estrangement.com. Learn more about Josh at joshuakorac.com. Content note: This episode includes discussion of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bullying, medication side effects, grief, and relationship difficulties. This podcast is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, mental health treatment, diagnosis, or an established therapeutic relationship. Do not start, stop, or change medication without consulting a qualified healthcare professional.