Narcissism is a personality disorder that shares many common traits with addiction. There are two types of narcissism, both of which may lead to tendencies in people that can, in turn, encourage addictive behaviors. It can be hard to discern even from a clinical perspective if alcoholism is separate from narcissism.

By doing so, a person is less likely to be «over-treated» for a condition they may not actually have. NPD and AUD frequently co-exist and can increase the effects of each other. People with a pattern of narcissism often turn to alcohol to reinforce a false sense of grandiosity. People with alcohol use disorder, also known as alcoholism, can display patterns of narcissism, including self-absorption and an underlying craving for admiration. Another study from 2019 found a link between drinking and the narcissistic traits of devaluing and entitlement-rage. Threatened egotism was listed as a factor that motivated increased alcohol use.

Symptoms and Diagnostic Criteria

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a key treatment for narcissistic alcoholism. It helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to both narcissistic alcoholic mother conditions. Narcissism and alcoholism often co-occur, creating complex challenges for individuals affected by both conditions. These disorders can amplify each other’s effects and complicate treatment approaches. People with narcissistic traits often have trouble maintaining healthy relationships.

Substance abuse can be used as a defense or a coping mechanism.

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) are closely linked and can occur together as a dual diagnosis. NPD increases the risk of alcohol misuse as a means to escape difficult emotions. While diagnosis and treatment can be challenging, studies have shown that the successful treatment of a mental illness can lead to alcohol recovery in two out of every three cases. Narcissistic individuals who misuse alcohol are more likely to be self-destructive. People with NPD have a higher rate of relationship failures, legal issues, and difficulty making healthy social connections in their personal and professional lives. Sometimes, self-destructive tendencies cause people with NPD to make impulsive life-changing decisions, including cheating on a spouse or failing to follow proper workplace procedures.

As Someone Living With NPD and AUD

They may struggle with jealousy, have a sense of entitlement, and display manipulative behaviors. Narcissism is a complex personality trait characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and a deep need for attention and admiration. It exists on a spectrum, ranging from healthy self-esteem to pathological narcissistic personality disorder. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 22.6% of people with a personality disorder may also have a substance misuse disorder. Family involvement in treatment is often difficult for individuals with NPD.

1. Both positive and negative personality traits are a combination of genetic and environmental influences.
2. Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is an addictive disorder where people cannot control or stop their use of alcohol.
3. In addition, the need to constantly look and act perfect may cause some people with NPD to develop depression, anxiety, or other mental health symptoms.
4. Some studies have shown people diagnosed with NPD respond more positively to therapeutic and social interventions.

People with narcissism and those with an addiction share similar character traits. These include a lack of empathy and a willingness to put themselves at risk in the pursuit of feeling superior. Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) are closely linked.

Recognizing these links traits may enable individuals to seek appropriate help in managing these conditions. Individuals with co-occurring personality disorders have a higher risk of experiencing a relapse during treatment and early recovery. They may marry, obtain a good job, and even have a family, but there is little peace behind the façade. To cope with the crippling self-doubt and self-hatred, many will turn to drugs and/or alcohol. liquid marijuana mix drink Studies have shown links between narcissistic behavioral patterns and substance abuse issues (Calvert-Conley, 2020).

AUD can range from mild to severe, depending on the number of symptoms present. Although people with AUD may relapse or have treatment setbacks, they can recover from the disorder. Learning healthy coping strategies can help them remain sober when they face triggers. Therapy is one of the most effective forms of treatment for clients with NPD and co-occurring AUD. Pathways Recovery Center’s residential dual-diagnosis treatment provides clients the support they need to grow, heal, and thrive.

Exhibiting narcissistic behaviors when drunk, for example, doesn’t inherently mean that a person has NPD. Alcohol can influence narcissistic behaviors, such as arrogance, self-importance, and feelings of superiority that aren’t otherwise present when sober. Personality disorders like NPD are those in which a person has a rigid and unhealthy pattern of thinking, functioning, and behaving. Substance use disorders like AUD are characterized by mental and physical addiction. Alcohol use disorder is a type eco sober house of substance use disorder where a person cannot control or stop their alcohol use.