To an alcoholic narcissist, drinking becomes one of their layers of defense. Individuals who are experiencing these symptoms would benefit from considering a treatment program for alcohol abuse. A person struggling with alcoholism can appear to dismiss friends and family to spend time with others that support their need to drink excessively. To family, it can appear that their loved one is putting these newfound friends ahead of them (similar to what a narcissist would do). Alcoholism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder have some overlapping behaviors. Understanding how these two separate disorders are similar may offer some insight into the type of addiction treatment that would be most beneficial.
They fail to keep promises, fulfill obligations, or pay attention to what other people need. At the expense of other people, they focus on themselves and on getting the next drink. When drunk, they have an easier time seeing themselves as smarter and more powerful than everyone else. Recognizing the need for intervention is the first step towards a path of recovery and healing. It’s essential to seek professional help and support from experienced therapists, counselors, or addiction specialists who can guide the individual through the process.
The Cycle of Alcoholism and Narcissism
By way of example, a person must meet five of nine possible criteria for NPD to be diagnosed, ranging from grandiosity to a lack of empathy. Similarly, using alcohol doesn’t mean a person with NPD has AUD, even if there have been incidents of extreme intoxication. Take our short alcohol quiz to learn where you fall on the drinking spectrum and if you might benefit from quitting or cutting back on alcohol. You can survive the experience by applying the techniques listed above, but at some point, you will have to bring up the subject of treatment. Self-care is crucial for maintaining your resilience and emotional strength.
Again, if care is not coordinated by a qualified mental health professional, the overlapping treatments can lead to drug interactions, unintended side effects, and the possible abandonment of treatment. 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.
The Link Between Narcissistic Personality Disorder and Alcoholism
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 22.6% of people with a personality disorder also have a substance use disorder (SUD), which can include alcohol use. Similarly, many people who misuse alcohol might display very few signs of narcissism. If people have risk factors for AUD, feel they are drinking excessively, or cannot control their alcohol intake, they can speak with a healthcare professional. The study commented that people who show grandiose traits may have feelings of importance in an environment of drinking where this quality may thrive.
- Following alcohol guidelines can help people stay within moderate levels of alcohol consumption.
- An overall mean score of narcissism was calculated for the two subscales (i.e., grandiose and vulnerable narcissism).
- Inpatient facilities offer therapy sessions, support groups and medication-based therapy in a safe, supportive environment, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery without outside stress.
- Alcohol acts as a depressant, altering brain chemistry and temporarily numbing emotional pain.
- In a nutshell, grandiose narcissists may feel proud of their excessive alcohol use, and the problems it can cause, if it makes them stand out.
However, without affirmation, the same individual may feel depressed and ashamed. Therefore, the presence or absence of external validations of their value determines whether a person may have the traits of grandiose narcissism or vulnerable narcissism. It is important to note, however, that the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) does not distinguish covert narcissism and alcoholism between types of narcissism. The idea of vulnerable versus grandiose narcissism comes from the psychodynamic idea that people with narcissistic traits believe they need to be perfect to be okay. It can be hard to discern even from a clinical perspective if alcoholism is separate from narcissism. The takeaway is that the individual needs treatment to make significant changes in their life.