While not all alcoholics are narcissistic, and not all narcissists are alcoholics, there are some similarities between the two conditions. Both alcoholics and narcissists tend to view others as either enablers or potential threats. Alcoholics may see others as people who can help them get attention or maintain their addiction, while narcissists may view others as people who can either boost or damage their self-esteem. Similarly, an alcoholics behavior and personality can change drastically, especially when under the influence. Alcohol lowers inhibitions, leading to outrageous, dangerous or abusive behavior. Denial manifests for alcoholics in many ways, such as saying they can stop drinking anytime they want, lying about when they drank, or refusing to acknowledge that their drinking has costs.
Exhibiting narcissistic traits and behaviors while drunk, does not prove that the person is narcissistic or has NPD. However, alcoholism can affect narcissism and cause an increase in narcissistic traits, behavior, and tendencies. An alcoholic might not be affected by NPD, yet they might display some traits and behave like a narcissist while under the influence of alcohol. As a result of self-centeredness and denial, alcoholics can behave in manipulative ways.
Why Narcissists Are at Risk of Alcohol Addiction
No studies examined associations between narcissism and alcohol problems, problem expectancies, problem evaluation and readiness to change. Enabling behavior can perpetuate the cycle of alcoholism and narcissism by shielding the alcoholic narcissist from the natural consequences of their actions. This can hinder their motivation to seek help and change their behavior. 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.
Alcohol can temporarily alleviate the vulnerable narcissist’s feelings of inadequacy, giving them a false sense of confidence that negates their niggling self-doubt. They tend to display more passive-aggressive behaviors, self-pity, and a victim mentality. Vulnerable narcissists, on the other hand, tend to be more realistic about alcohol-related problems, such as passing out or feeling sick, and more willing to discuss them. You’ve joined your colleagues for a drink after work, and as the night progresses, your narcissistic boss’s behavior becomes increasingly intolerable.
Medical Professionals
This may include practicing mindfulness, engaging in physical activity, or finding creative outlets for stress relief. Recovery requires taking responsibility for your actions and acknowledging covert narcissism and alcoholism the harm you may have caused others. Taking responsibility for your actions can be an uncomfortable and difficult process, but it is crucial to making amends and moving forward.
The takeaway is that the individual needs treatment to make significant changes in their life. Depending on the severity of the problem, residential or inpatient treatment may be necessary. Once detox is completed and sobriety has begun, outpatient therapy can be beneficial. It is also recommended to utilize family or couples counseling to heal relationships as well. If you think you have either or both conditions, it’s best to talk with a mental health professional for a diagnosis. As with all personality disorders, NPD is a long-standing condition.
What do the clinical signs of narcissism look like in everyday life?
The current study contributed to the literature in the following ways. Third, this study differentially evaluated the relationship between grandiose and vulnerable narcissism and alcohol outcomes. The findings of this study have potential implications for future treatment and research. For example, different prevention and treatment methods can be developed for individuals high in either grandiose or vulnerable narcissism.
- The experience of having nothing to do, and no one to impress, fills them with dread because it brings with it a risk of self-reflection.
- Narcissists are prone to dramatic mood swings and may change their behavior and attitudes without warning, especially if they feel they’ve been wronged in some way, real or imagined.
- The study commented that people who show grandiose traits may have feelings of importance in an environment of drinking where this quality may thrive.
- This can make it difficult to have honest and open communication, as they may become defensive or aggressive when confronted with their behavior.
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 abuse 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. Being in a relationship with an alcoholic narcissist can be a challenging and emotionally draining experience.
Ways Narcissists and Alcoholics Are Similar
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.