The Addiction of Narcissism

Along with denying the existence of their drinking problem, alcoholics refuse to take responsibility for their harmful behaviors. Think about a typical alcoholic personality, the way that people with alcoholism relate to others and see themselves. Consider the similarities with the list we shared earlier on abusive personality disorder signs. https://ecosoberhouse.com/ Many people with narcissism may also have an addiction to alcohol, sex, drugs, or social media. There is much research to suggest a strong link between narcissism and problematic sexual behavior, notably infidelity and sexual assault. The same factors that drive the problematic use of alcohol and drugs can also drive sex addiction.

Dual diagnosis

• In other words, those who had narcissistic tendencies were more likely to use alcohol and experience problems because of alcohol use.
• Aggressive behavior and pathological narcissism were linked to alcohol overuse in a 2017 study of Canadian men.
• Alcoholism refers to a chronic disorder characterized by an inability to control or stop drinking despite negative consequences.
• Patience and support are therefore needed to ensure the best possible outcomes.

That change, Malkin says, is about learning to open up to and depend on loved ones and friends in healthy ways. “To the extent that you can’t depend on people, you’ll depend on other sources to soothe yourself, like feeling special (narcissism) or watching pornography or getting drunk. But addiction makes us all more narcissistic—willing to lie, steal, cheat, and even exploit others to get our high.” Simine Vazire and David Funder decided to look into what caused these self-defeating behaviors, asking was it a function of conscious cognitive and affective processes or something else.

The Link Between Alcohol and Narcissistic Personality Disorder

When other people point out their drinking problem, alcoholics react defensively. If they acknowledge their problem, it means they’ll have to take the difficult steps of addressing it. Regardless of what’s going on in their lives, alcoholics feel entitled to a drink. Nothing, not even their family’s pain, can stand in the way of the drink they feel they deserve. Grandiose narcissism is characterized by high self-esteem and an exaggerated sense of superiority. Individuals with this type crave attention and admiration, often appearing charismatic and assertive.

• Treatment may involve therapy, medication, and support groups, among other options.
• This type of setting is particularly beneficial for those with severe addiction and co-occurring mental health issues, ensuring they receive the necessary care to address both conditions.
• Treating each condition independently can sometimes lead people to “choose one over the other,” especially if care is not coordinated.
• First described as a distinct psychological condition in the early 20th century, narcissism has since been extensively studied and categorized, most notably as narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) in the DSM-5.
• Both NPD and AUD are mental health conditions classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5).
• Childhood rejection or experiences like child abuse and neglect are also linked to NPD [2].

Diagnosing alcoholism and NPD

Often, family therapy reduces the negative effects on children or partners. Pathways Recovery Center uses evidence-based therapy and personalized treatment plans to support clients with co-occurring NPD and AUD. Alcohol misuse is often a form of self-medication for individuals with co-occurring mental health issues.

For narcissists, seeing others struggle with similar issues can be a powerful tool for developing empathy and breaking down their sense of uniqueness. It’s like joining a club they never wanted to be part of, but finding unexpected camaraderie and support. While narcissists often crave attention, those battling addiction may withdraw from social situations they can’t control. They might avoid events where their substance use could be noticed or questioned.

People with narcissistic personality disorders share similar traits with addicts, and both types of narcissistic personality disorder may lead to addiction. It is important to note that people with an addiction do not always show signs of a narcissistic personality disorder and that people with narcissism do not always develop an addiction. A 2019 study involving young adults with vulnerable narcissism found that the disorder can cause overwhelming feelings of shame in the individual. The person then seeks out alcohol or substances to mediate these feelings, leading to more feelings of shame, and so on.

Although alcohol misuse and AUD can cause someone to display narcissist-like behavior, this behavior might change when they’re sober or in recovery. You could start by engaging with a mental healthcare narcissism and alcoholism provider or treatment center that specializes in dual diagnoses. Treatment centers can also ensure that you can access the right support systems at the right time in your treatment.

Alcoholism Treatment – Pathways Recovery Center in Azusa, CA

Family Programs

• Meanwhile, alcoholism is an addiction to alcohol that adversely affects a person’s physical and mental health.
• It is also recommended to utilize family or couples counseling to heal relationships as well.
• If they acknowledge their problem, it means they’ll have to take the difficult steps of addressing it.