Is There a Connection Between Narcissism and Alcoholism?

While alcohol use disorder and narcissism occur together relatively often, this doesn’t necessarily mean that NPD causes alcohol problems. It is, however, possible that individuals who experience distress or dysfunction as a result of NPD may turn to alcohol consumption as a coping mechanism, placing them at higher risk of developing AUD. By working towards a healthier and more fulfilling life through these strategies, individuals can break free from the destructive cycle of narcissism and alcoholism. Research indicates that individuals diagnosed with NPD are more likely to develop AUD compared to those without narcissistic traits. The presence of both disorders can complicate their individual treatment processes, as the underlying narcissistic tendencies may hinder the individual’s willingness to acknowledge and address their alcohol misuse.

1. A 2019 article in Frontiers in Psychiatry looks at the relationship between the problematic use of substances and narcissism, concluding that self-esteem plays a major role.
2. It seems that many people who have NPD might also have AUD, but it’s not clear why.
3. When you’re caught in the crossfire of someone with these symptoms, recognize that you aren’t responsible for their behavior—as much as they might try to pin it on you or someone else.
4. Narcissism and alcoholism often co-occur, meaning they are frequently diagnosed together in individuals.
5. Narcissism and alcoholism are two distinct conditions but share some traits.

Family’s Role in Supporting Treatment

Genetics, environmental factors, age, gender, and family medical history all play a role in whether someone develops a mental health or substance use disorder (SUD). Pathways Recovery Center uses a holistic approach to treatment for individuals with alcoholism and co-occurring NPD. It’s possible to have a narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) as well as an alcohol use disorder (AUD). While narcissism is a personality disorder and alcoholism is an addiction, narcissists and alcoholics share several characteristics. Recognizing these commonalities can help you understand and cope with people who have Narcissistic Personality Disorder, untreated alcoholism, or both.

What to know about narcissism and alcoholism

Long-term studies are needed to assess treatment outcomes and identify factors that promote sustained recovery. Advancing our understanding of these complex, intertwined conditions can lead to more effective interventions and improved quality of life for affected individuals. Narcissistic individuals typically struggle with empathy, making it difficult for them to understand or relate to others’ feelings. This lack of empathy can be further diminished by alcohol use, creating a significant emotional disconnect in relationships. If you think you’re misusing alcohol, or if you think you have NPD, reach out to a mental health professional. Everybody can benefit from speaking with a therapist, regardless of whether they fit the criteria for a mental health condition.

Understanding Narcissism

We talk loudly, interrupt people, and generally Bipolar Disorder and Alcohol behave as if no one else’s feelings matter. You’ve joined your colleagues for a drink after work, and as the night progresses, your narcissistic boss’s behavior becomes increasingly intolerable. Narcissists are full of entitlement and lack empathy for others, so they may do whatever they want to others with no regard to their feelings. Alcoholics do the same when they put their drinking first without concern for how it affects others. In a conflict, a narcissist will turn everything around on you, gaslight, and refuse to apologize or agree to change.

Health Challenges

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. This article looks at the links between narcissism and addiction and explains why people with narcissism may be more likely than other people to engage in addictive behaviors.

Exhibiting narcissistic behaviors when drunk, for example, doesn’t inherently mean that a person has NPD. Alcohol can influence narcissistic behaviors, such as arrogance, self-importance, and feelings of superiority that aren’t otherwise present when sober. Personality disorders like NPD are those in which a person has a rigid and unhealthy pattern of thinking, functioning, and behaving. Substance use disorders like AUD are characterized by mental and physical addiction. Alcohol use disorder is a type of substance use disorder where a person cannot control or stop their alcohol use.

Similarly, using alcohol doesn’t mean a person with NPD has AUD, even if there have been incidents of extreme intoxication. Both AUD and NPD have distinctive symptoms and features that occur independently of each other.

Individuals may struggle with maintaining employment, friendships, and romantic partnerships. Treatment may involve detoxification, counseling, and support groups to address both physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Mood-related symptoms may include irritability, anxiety, and depression, especially when unable to drink. 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.