Have you ever felt like you’re carrying everyone else’s stress on your shoulders and forgetting about yourself in the process?

In this episode of Latine ADHD, I sit down with Licensed Educational Psychologist and small business owner, Lucia Serio, to talk about life as an empath with ADHD. Lucia describes what it feels like to be “a sponge” picking up on the emotions, tension, and energy of people around her and how that can lead to overwhelm and burnout if boundaries slip away.

Together, we explore:
✨ The first warning signs that show you might be overextending yourself
✨ How ADHD makes it harder to notice (or act on) your own needs in the moment
✨ Why mind-body connection is crucial for regulating emotions
✨ Three practical tips Lucia uses to protect her energy and avoid burnout

Lucia also shares a deeply personal story about how the L.A. fires of January 2025 pushed her into overextension mode and how she found creative ways to help her community without burning herself out. Her reflection is a powerful reminder that being highly empathetic is not a weakness. It’s a gift that can be managed with the right boundaries and tools.

This conversation is especially for you if you’ve ever been told:

“You’re too sensitive.”
“You care too much.”
Or felt guilty for wanting to step back when the world demands more of you.

🌿 Listen in to learn how to honor your empathy, protect your energy, and thrive with ADHD, without sacrificing yourself in the process.

Resources & Connect with Lucia:

Learn more about Lucia’s private practice and offerings for educators, families, and individuals with disabilities: www.bookwormedpsych.com
Follow her work in sexuality education and disability empowerment: @bookwormedpsych

Let’s Stay Connected:
💌 Subscribe to my newsletter for ADHD-friendly tools and stories from our comunidad:

https://www.drjanicecastro.com/#ADHDResources
🎧 Follow Latine ADHD wherever you get your podcasts
📲 Share this episode with a friend who might need it

✨ Remember: sensitivity is not a flaw. It’s proof of your humanity. With the right boundaries, it can become your biggest strength.

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S4 E2: Empaths with ADHD: How to Avoid Burnout