The distorted perception of self and others, coupled with impaired judgment due to alcohol, can create a volatile combination that takes a toll on mental well-being. A person with NPD may prioritize their own needs and desires over the well-being of their partner or family members. They may engage in manipulative tactics, blame others for their problems, and exhibit controlling behaviors. Alcohol abuse can exacerbate these negative tendencies, leading to erratic and unpredictable behavior that further damages relationships. If you feel like you or someone you care about might be showing signs of being an alcoholic narcissist, there is hope, and there is no reason to be ashamed. Alcoholism is a very serious condition, and without treatment, it can lead to homelessness, failed relationships, and even early death.
Instability within relationships
- While it may be possible for some individuals with NPD to drink in moderation, it can be challenging due to the nature of the disorder.
- However, narcissistic traits do not inherently indicate the presence of a mental health disorder.
- Treating alcohol use disorder without addressing the narcissism or other mental health issues that underlie substance abuse will increase the chances of relapse and the need for more professional treatment.
- They may resist exploring their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions more deeply.
If you do relapse, try to seek help again — it’s still possible to make a full recovery. Therapy, a strong support system, and self-care strategies can help you make a full 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. https://ecosoberhouse.com/ However, NPD includes other traits, such as needing constant praise and special treatment, reacting negatively to criticism, and manipulating others.
- Both grandiose and vulnerable narcissism were predictors of alcohol consumption and alcohol-related problems.
- At variance with 1 epidemiologic study39 that found no sex differences in prevalence of NPD, this study found higher rates of NPD among men than among women.
- When other people point out their drinking problem, alcoholics react defensively.
- This is because they are interconnected with one another and, therefore, cannot be addressed as separate conditions.
- Drugs and alcohol can make them feel better about themselves or more control their perceived negative attributes by lifting their untreated depression and anxiety.
- Alcoholism can lead to serious side effects and can generate damaging complications.
How to Stop Drinking Alcohol: 5 Tips for Success
It is important to remember that no two people are the same, so there needs to be a tailored approach to each individual’s needs. A co-occurring disorder is diagnosed when a person has a substance use disorder along with a mental health disorder. When someone has alcoholism and narcissistic personality disorder, they may be particularly vulnerable to the negative consequences of both. The symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder and other mental health conditions can make life more challenging.
Arrogant and Manipulative Behavior
Rather than always being overly confident or in love with themselves, individuals with this condition wildly transition from this state to one of complete self-loathing and worthlessness. Abuse is capable of disguising itself as love, and narcissists can be great attractors of victims. Those suffering from psychological abuse narcissism and alcoholism by a narcissist assume that this is love and seek ways to cope. These disorders, when paired with AUD, require evaluation to prevent severe outcomes, per the American Psychiatric Association2. A 2014 study into narcissism and the use of internet pornography found a direct correlation between hours spent viewing pornographic material and the extent of narcissism.
Victim Addictions
Research shows narcissists are less likely to believe they would have a problem with substance abuse in the first place and less likely to admit they have a problem –– leading to treatment delays. A malignant narcissist may lie frequently, drug addiction exhibit aggressiveness, have psychopathic traits, manipulate people, and even enjoy inflicting pain on others. These individuals are very outwardly grandiose, arrogant, self-absorbed, and attention-seeking. Learning about the symptoms of each mental health disorder is important to understand how NPD and AUD intersect. A wife coping with an alcoholic husband may benefit from counseling, support groups, and learning to detach with love. If narcissism is also present, focusing on personal safety and clear boundaries is essential.
