However, remember that it will probably still be lopsided and unhealthy. Grandiose narcissism significantly predicted alcohol use, as did male gender and social desirability. Little is known about narcissism and drinking in college students, a population that is at high risk https://ecosoberhouse.com/ for alcohol-related problems. No studies examined associations between narcissism and alcohol problems, problem expectancies, problem evaluation and readiness to change. Based on existing research, we can’t say that alcoholism causes a personality disorder like narcissism.

• But, when people with both AUD and NPD go back to drinking, they will probably hide or deny it.
• Although people with AUD may relapse or have treatment setbacks, they can recover from the disorder.
• If you or someone you know struggles with a substance use disorder in addition to narcissistic personality disorder, help is available at The Recovery Village.
• It involves the use of medications like naltrexone that decreases the impacts of withdrawal on the brain.
• This type of treatment is well-suited for individuals who have struggled with their co-occurring disorders while dealing with problems at work or home.

Narcissistic alcoholics frequently exploit others to fulfill their own needs and desires [3]. They may take advantage of people’s vulnerabilities, emotions, or resources without remorse. Individuals who are dependent on alcohol constantly think about having an alcoholic beverage. They can get irritated or frustrated if they do not have alcohol at their disposal.

Is an Alcoholic Narcissist More Likely to Relapse?

Inpatient rehab takes place in a residential facility where 24/7 care is provided. This type of treatment is well-suited for individuals who have struggled with their co-occurring disorders while dealing with problems at work or home. Inpatient facilities offer therapy sessions, support groups and medication-based therapy in a safe, supportive environment, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery without outside stress. If someone has AUD as well as a personality disorder, it’s recommended that both are treated at the same time to improve their chances of recovery. A 2018 study found that people with personality disorders were more likely to have AUD at some point in their lives. A 2018 study examined the link between narcissism and alcohol use based on a survey of 345 college students.

Vulnerable narcissism, on the other hand, emerged as a risk factor for alcohol-related problems. Vulnerable narcissism also contributes to people’s expectation and recognition of alcohol problems. This study highlights the importance of individual differences in alcohol-related outcomes in a high risk population of college students. An alcoholic narcissist, or someone with narcissistic personality disorder, is one of many conditions that can co-occur with alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Doctor explains the relationship between narcissistic personality disorder and alcoholism

Without treatment, people with BPD have trouble maintaining positive relationships and are vulnerable to abusing drugs and alcohol to cope with difficult emotions. Remember, behind the façade of arrogance and self-absorption lies a fragile soul yearning for genuine connection. Let us extend our support, shatter the stigma, and pave the way for a brighter, healthier future for individuals struggling with alcoholic narcissism. Psychotherapy, narcissism and alcoholism particularly modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy, forms the cornerstone of treatment for alcoholic narcissism [1]. For your mental health, it may be best to keep a narcissist in your life at arm’s length or cut ties with them altogether. Since narcissists cannot see their behavior as a problem and never admit when they’re wrong, trying to maintain a relationship will only lead to more frustration.

For females, it is not advisable to consume more than one unit of alcohol per day. People may be unable to prevent certain factors, such as genetic reasons, that increase the risk of AUD and NPD. However, there are steps they can take to reduce risks within their control. The outlook of co-occurring NPD and AUD may depend on the severity of each condition and how each individual is functioning.