Is There a Connection Between Narcissism and Alcoholism?

However, many signs can overlap between alcoholism and Narcissism, and it’s important to know if it actually is both, or just one that is causing the severity of the other’s symptoms. You can call us 24/7 at American Addiction Institute of Mind and Medicine to discuss options and how to help your loved one. It cannot be proved that alcoholism can cause personality disorders like narcissism. Alcoholism is considered a substance abuse disorder, which is often referred to as an addiction. However, it may or may not require a clinical diagnosis as compared to narcissism, based on the healthcare provider. It is important to recognize the impact of alcoholism and narcissism on relationships and seek support and guidance.

Rather, NPD develops as a result of a combination of risk factors. Living with an alcoholic narcissist can be an emotional rollercoaster, and maintaining your equilibrium covert narcissism and alcoholism can be challenging in the face of their ever-changing emotions and demands. Engaging in arguments with an alcoholic narcissist can be futile and emotionally draining.

Understanding Narcissism

Diagnosing co-occurring disorders can be difficult because the two conditions often affect each other and have overlapping symptoms. With dual diagnosis patients, it is always vital to obtain treatment for both disorders at the same time. Treating alcohol use disorder without addressing the narcissism or other mental health issues that underlie substance abuse will increase the chances of relapse and the need for more professional treatment. For these reasons, alcoholic narcissists need dual diagnosis care.

• She has a PhD in clinical psychology and teaches college curriculum in the areas of mental health and addiction.
• It is important to remember that no two people are the same, so there needs to be a tailored approach to each individual’s needs.
• If they acknowledge their problem, it means they’ll have to take the difficult steps of addressing it.
• When narcissism is combined with the cravings and impulses of alcoholism, this behavior only worsens.

The main treatment for NPD is talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy. Genetics also seem to play a role in the development of both conditions. In both NPD and AUD, childhood trauma — including abuse and neglect — may be a risk factor. Further research into the causes of AUD might help experts develop more treatment options. It seems that many people who have NPD might also have AUD, but it’s not clear why. It’s worth noting that the DSM-5-TR doesn’t use the term “alcoholism,” but the term is still used colloquially to refer to AUD.

Ways To Forgive Yourself In Recovery

With a focus on expanding care access, empowering choice, and enhancing care quality, the company delivers innovative solutions that support individuals throughout their mental health journey. Treatment can help someone with NPD and AUD to change their behavior and reduce the level of dysfunction that these two conditions have in their daily life. When a person has two conditions, the best option is often to treat the two conditions simultaneously. Furthermore, as alcohol reduces inhibitions, it may exacerbate other narcissistic behaviors, such as heightened self-absorption, denial, delusions of grandeur, and destructive tendencies.

It can feel impossible to escape this situation, especially if you care for that person. We hope this article helps you understand how to help a narcissistic alcoholic or addict. You can call American Addiction Institute 24/7 for expert alcoholism treatment and substance use disorder help. It is important to understand that not all individuals with narcissistic traits or narcissistic personality disorder are alcoholics, and not all alcoholics exhibit narcissistic behaviors. However, the combination of these two conditions can present unique challenges that require a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment.

Overlapping signs and symptoms

While alcoholism and narcissism are separate conditions, there can be some overlap between the two. It is possible for individuals with narcissistic traits or narcissistic personality disorder to develop alcohol use disorder, commonly known as alcoholism. The combination of alcoholism and narcissism can create unique challenges and complexities in both diagnosis and treatment. While alcohol use disorder and narcissism occur together relatively often, this doesn’t necessarily mean that NPD causes alcohol problems. It is, however, possible that individuals who experience distress or dysfunction as a result of NPD may turn to alcohol consumption as a coping mechanism, placing them at higher risk of developing AUD.

Our highly experienced staff of mental health and addiction experts has experience with all personality disorders and different types of substance use disorders. The intersection of alcoholism and narcissism can present complex challenges for individuals and their loved ones. Understanding the dynamics between these two conditions is crucial in providing effective support and treatment. With the right resources, professional help, and a multidisciplinary approach, it is possible to navigate the complexities of alcoholism and narcissism and work towards healing, recovery, and healthier relationships.

She has a PhD in clinical psychology and teaches college curriculum in the areas of mental health and addiction. Dry-drunk individuals may also exhibit narcissistic behaviors as they struggle to cope with unresolved emotional issues and challenges. Alcohol lowers inhibitions, making it easier for narcissists to act on their desires and impulses without feeling restrained by social norms or consequences. This can lead to even more grandiose and attention-seeking behaviors. The National Institute of Mental Health asserts that 22.6% of people suffering from a personality disorder may also have substance misuse problems. An individual may be an alcoholic narcissist, someone who has NPD and then develops alcohol addiction and dependence.

We talk loudly, interrupt people, and generally behave as if no one else’s feelings matter. When we drink, our inhibitions fall away, and we start to believe we are the most attractive, funniest, and cleverest person in the room. Narcissists almost never apologize or promise to change their ways.