The Addicted Narcissist

Although experts believe that genetic factors can make people up to 50% more inclined toward alcohol use disorder, addiction has many possible causes. These include environmental factors, social factors, and emotional factors. People with vulnerable narcissism tend to show avoidant, defensive, or hypersensitive behaviors, and they often experience feelings of rage at a perceived lack of esteem or respect.

How can I divorce a narcissist who is also a drug addict?

For this reason, mental health professionals will routinely screen for substance abuse when diagnosing a personality disorder or screen for behavioral concerns when a person has a substance abuse disorder. 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. The Dark Triad of personality—narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy (1)—attracted enormous research interest in the past decades.

Reinforcement of Narcissistic Behavior through Alcohol

Understanding the relationship between narcissism and alcoholism is a complex endeavor. While not all individuals with narcissistic traits develop alcoholism, research suggests a significant association between the two. In this section, we will explore the connection between narcissism and alcoholism, focusing on co-occurring disorders and shared risk factors.

Alcoholism Treatment

It is essential to approach the treatment of co-occurring narcissism and alcoholism with a comprehensive and integrated approach. Seeking professional help is crucial in managing these complex conditions. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) outlines the criteria for diagnosing NPD, including a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. However, it is important to note that not all individuals with narcissistic traits will meet the diagnostic criteria for NPD.

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• People in the latter group are less able to recognize that they have a problem and are, therefore, less likely to be ready to change their behaviors.
• Alcoholism refers to a chronic disorder characterized by an inability to control or stop drinking despite negative consequences.
• There is much research to suggest a strong link between narcissism and problematic sexual behavior, notably infidelity and sexual assault.
• In addition to problem recognition, important factors that might maintain or change drinking behavior are expectancies and evaluations of problems.
• When AUD and NPD occur together, it can increase a person’s hostility and aggression.

The same factors that drive the problematic use of alcohol and drugs can also drive sex addiction. These include fluctuating or low self-esteem, the devaluing of others, and a sense of invulnerability. Our approach centers on treating people with the same kindness and respect that we value for ourselves.

Are all Narcissists Alcoholics?

The outlook of co-occurring NPD and AUD may depend on the severity of each condition and how each individual is functioning. Read more about living with a person who has AUD and managing a relationship with someone who has NPD. If your alcohol use is severe, you’ll likely need to go to an inpatient facility so that you can safely withdraw from alcohol. Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous, so it’s important to seek medical help. Each person needs a different treatment method depending on their unique situation, and as such, not everyone will have the same treatment program. However, research from 2014 tells us that genetics might play a part in whether some people develop NPD.

Negative and disrupted attachment, neglect and maltreatment, high-conflict divorce, and abuse are examples of traumatic cycles during childhood. People seek to avoid these heartbreak variations but often find themselves deeply enmeshed in a similar adult situation. To cope with the abuse of living with a narcissistic abuser, the victim turns to self-medication through substance abuse. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate the difference between the two types of narcissism and how they relate to alcohol outcomes in a college sample.

Alcohol use disorder

Alcoholism is an addiction where people cannot control their alcohol use. Narcissism and alcoholism may both share similar characteristics and can occur at the same time. Recognizing these links traits may enable individuals to seek appropriate help in managing these conditions. 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.

• Group therapy provides a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences and gain insights from others facing similar challenges.
• A strong treatment program will address both the problematic drinking and any other psychological issues, including narcissistic tendencies.
• Enablers are often family members, friends, or partners who feel responsible for the narcissist’s well-being and believe that they must do whatever it takes to make the narcissist happy.
• Its mission involves educating, supporting, and empowering people in their pursuit of well-being.
• This is especially true if you have conflicted emotions and are reluctant to speak with others who might judge you or your relationship.
• Narcissism, a term derived from the Greek myth of Narcissus, refers to a personality trait characterized by an excessive sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.

Narcissism and social media addiction

• Alcoholism can have profound effects on individuals' lives, relationships, and overall well-being.
• Sian Ferguson is a freelance health and cannabis writer based in Cape Town, South Africa.
• The needs and desires of narcissistic individuals may be prioritized over those of their partner, leading to neglect and resentment.