If you’ve dealt with a narcissist you know that one minute they can be charming and pleasant but then turn around and become threatening and attacking. Alcoholics can undergo similar shifts when under the influence and can seem like a different person in a matter of a few drinks. Narcissism and alcoholism are two distinct conditions but share some traits. If you think you have NPD, try to make an appointment with a mental health professional. You can connect with a mental health professional using the Healthline FindCare tool.
There’s little data on whether people with both NPD and AUD have a different outlook than people who have only one of the conditions. However, it’s recommended that both conditions are treated at the same time to improve your likelihood of recovery. You might also engage in lifestyle changes and self-care strategies in order to make progress. One such change might be to avoid substances like alcohol if they tend to trigger harmful behavior. However, NPD includes other traits, such as needing constant praise and special treatment, reacting negatively to criticism, and manipulating others.
The Link Between Alcoholism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder
From there, sessions will work to demonstrate how narcissistic traits impact daily life – as well as how they affect other people – and how an individual can better manage and outmanoeuvre their urges. Alcoholism is one of the most dangerous forms of substance abuse, largely due to its ability to affect both physical and mental health. Treating SUDs and mental illnesses frequently involve using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is an evidence-based therapy that teaches methods to improve interpersonal communication and coping skills.
Coping with someone with a dual diagnosis can be more difficult than if that person suffered from only narcissism or untreated alcoholism. Being in a relationship with a narcissistic alcoholic can be challenging and emotionally draining. The needs and desires of narcissistic individuals may be prioritized over those of their partner, leading to neglect and resentment. Additionally, alcohol addiction can lead to unpredictable behavior and emotional instability. The prevalence of narcissistic personality disorder is estimated to be between 1 and 5 percent, research suggests.
Alcohol & Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Is There a Connection?
As a result, those who drink regularly will be less likely to identify and react to unhealthy changes in their physical and mental well-being. Their ego will prevent them from acknowledging the concerns of others, leaving them exposed to addiction. It is clear from the research that there are significant occurrence rates between Narcissistic Personality Disorder and substance abuse [2], but as for why this is the case, things are less clear. Establishing causality is always difficult when it comes to mental health.
- She has a PhD in clinical psychology and teaches college curriculum in the areas of mental health and addiction.
- Moderators such as positive or negative affect or reward sensitivity might affect the strength of the associations found in this study.
Sian Ferguson is a freelance health and cannabis writer based in Cape Town, South Africa. She’s passionate about empowering readers to take care of their mental and physical health through science-based, empathetically delivered information. To get started, contact a doctor or other healthcare professional, or reach out to a therapist.
Alcoholism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder
While they may not show it outwardly, criticism is especially unbearable for a narcissist. They may dwell on it, or be haunted by it, and end up enraged covert narcissism and alcoholism or retaliating. Alcoholism is a chronic, progressive, complicated disease that is hallmarked by an unmanageable compulsion to drink alcohol.
We understand mental health challenges firsthand and approach your mental health journey with compassion. Whether it’s connecting you with the right therapist or supporting you through difficult times, we embrace you as part of our community. Dr. Jenni Jacobsen is a licensed social worker and behavioral health consultant.