Exploring the Connection: Narcissism and Alcoholism

You might also consider seeing a therapist who can provide you with coping tools and a means to sort out your feelings. This is especially true if you have conflicted emotions and are reluctant to speak with others who might judge you or your relationship. Because a person with NPD will often approach therapy with ambivalence or negative feelings, they are more likely to give up prematurely. They also tend to have a low tolerance for stress and will often give up and walk away than deal with it. The outlook is even better in people with mental illness who abuse alcohol and other substances.

• To treat dual diagnosis, people will receive treatment options for both NPD and AUD.
• Grandiose narcissists are highly concerned with their self-image and how others perceive them.
• Even when important parts of their life are suffering due to their decisions, in the co-occurrence of alcoholism and narcissistic personality disorder, the individual believes that everyone else is wrong.
• In contrast, vulnerable narcissism, or covert narcissism, was a risk factor for future alcohol-related problems.
• It can also cause financial problems and increase the risk of domestic violence and infidelity.

It is important for the codependent partner to recognize the unhealthy dynamics at play and seek support for themselves, such as therapy or support groups. This can empower them to establish healthier boundaries and prioritize their own well-being. Moreover, alcohol can contribute to the erosion of personal relationships, as narcissistic behavior fueled by alcohol can lead to conflicts, manipulation, and emotional abuse.

Is There a Link Between Narcissism and Alcoholism?

When somebody is dealing with both narcissism and alcoholism, it can become difficult to even convince them that they have an issue. Early intervention and treatment are the best ways to ensure a person avoids the severe side effects of narcissism and alcoholism. Dual-diagnosis treatment focuses on providing clients with emotional stabilization and ensures they receive support for any underlying issues affecting their mental or physical health. Untreated narcissism and alcoholism devastate individuals, families, and communities. The fact that other people bear the brunt of the adverse side effects sets NPD apart from most other disorders. The person with the disorder is often the last to experience consequences as they manipulate others to protect themselves.

If you’ve ever wondered if your loved one’s issues involve only their drinking problem or may in fact involve narcissism as well, consider the following symptoms. A 2019 study found a link between covert narcissism and alcoholism vulnerable narcissism, shame, and an increased likelihood of problem drinking and gambling. Vulnerable narcissism features traits like low self-esteem, helplessness, and rejection sensitivity.

How an Alcoholic Narcissist affects those around them?

Both NPD and AUD are mental health conditions classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). According to a 2019 study in Behavioral Medicine, 40.6% of NPD have substance abuse problems. On the flip side, grandiose and vulnerable NPD were both independent factors for alcohol abuse, concluded a 2019 study in the Journal of American College Health. A person suffering from narcissism and alcoholism very likely has fragile self-esteem, and it can be difficult for them to even admit that they have a problem.

Outpatient rehab allows patients to recover from a co-occurring disorder while still attending to daily personal and professional responsibilities at home. Inpatient rehab takes place in a residential facility where 24/7 care is provided. This type of treatment is well-suited for individuals who have struggled with their co-occurring disorders while dealing with problems at work or home.