Is There a Link Between Narcissists and Addiction

There are many similar traits between someone with NPD and someone with a substance use disorder. In many ways, the substance is accessed as a way of self-medicating the negative emotions the NPD wants to deny. These might be feelings of shame or guilt, low self-esteem, or a sense of inadequacy. To maintain a sense of superiority they must hide these feelings, so a substance becomes a tool to that end. NPD is a complex mental health disorder that is difficult to treat.

Diagnosing co-occurring disorders can be difficult because the two conditions often affect each other and have overlapping symptoms. With dual diagnosis patients, it is always vital to obtain treatment for both disorders at narcissism and alcoholism the same time. 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.

How Psychopathic Gambling Addicts WILL Ruin Your Life

The treatment paths for both disorders are similar to each other. Individuals can go through talk therapy, developing social skills and targeting emotional triggers. At the same time, both conditions can create a feeling of self-absorption. The individual may prioritize their own welfare above others at all costs. When the individual is not drinking, they have negative emotions. If they are cut off from alcohol, they may become angry or violent. Narcissists don’t enter a room saying Hi, Im Jack, Im a narcissist.

With treatment, those with NPD can live healthy lives with positive relationships. When the person begins the therapy process they will address the NPD head-on. Because narcissists and addiction are often interlinked, it is crucial to offer treatment for both of these complex disorders. In some cases, you may be prescribed medication to help decrease cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms.

Signs of Substance Use Disorders

Only the alcoholic narcissist can decide if they need help and when they’re ready to begin treatment. If you’re the partner of someone with NPD and AUD, you likely witness and hear things the narcissist’s family and friends don’t. Understandably, this can make it difficult to seek support from them or to convince them of a need for intervention.

While it may seem daunting, these two conditions are best tackled together. AUD is progressive, meaning it will only get worse over time without treatment.

Getting Help For Alcoholic Narcissists

What you may not know is that narcissists and addiction are often co-occurring disorders. The bottom line is that all alcoholics are not narcissists, but everyone with an addiction acts selfishly to some degree. Their selfishness, lying and disregard for the pain they cause their loved ones may come across as narcissistic. But a narcissist is someone who feels more important than others and demands to be seen as such, either verbally or through their actions. A narcissist may use their addiction as a way to justify their behavior. They might say all alcoholics lie, that their addiction causes them to emotionally shut-off and they can’t be blamed for their drinking because it is an addiction.

Excessive drinking has numerous impacts on your body and mind, ranging from mild to https://ecosoberhouse.com/ severe. Learn which signs to look out for, and how to care for your well-being.