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Dr. Trainwreck on Mislabeling Exes as Narcissists and Handling Family Boundaries

opinion-review · 2026-05-03

In an advice column for Artillery Magazine, Dr. Trainwreck addresses two reader questions. The first concerns a friend who diagnoses every ex as a narcissist after breakups. Dr. Trainwreck argues that most people misuse the term, which is a serious clinical diagnosis, and suggests the friend should reflect on her own role in failed relationships rather than pathologizing partners. The second question involves a reader whose sister wants to collaborate on a creative project but turns disagreements into emotional crises, accusing the reader of ableism for setting boundaries. Dr. Trainwreck dismisses the ableism claim, advising the reader to prioritize their own mental health and enforce firm boundaries, even with loved ones.

Key facts

  • Dr. Trainwreck writes an advice column for Artillery Magazine.
  • The column addresses two reader questions.
  • First question: friend labels all exes as narcissists after breakups.
  • Dr. Trainwreck says narcissism is a serious, rare clinical diagnosis.
  • She advises the friend to accept rejection gracefully.
  • Second question: sister wants to collaborate but cries when told no.
  • Sister accuses reader of ableism for setting boundaries.
  • Dr. Trainwreck says enforcing boundaries is not ableist.

Entities

Artists

  • Dr. Trainwreck

Institutions

  • Artillery Magazine

Sources