Reach out to loved ones you trust who can walk with you through the recovery journal. Treating each condition independently can sometimes lead people to “choose one over the other,” especially if care is not coordinated. One example is being referred to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) on the presumption of AUD. In such cases, a person might start to question the diagnosis and abandon treatment altogether even if another condition, such as NPD, actually exists. The outlook of co-occurring NPD and AUD may depend on the severity of each condition and how each individual is functioning. Healthcare professionals and psychologists may use a set of amphetamine addiction treatment criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) to diagnose narcissism or AUD.

They are self-centered and feel entitled

Healthcare professionals may also use the Narcissistic Personality Inventory to diagnose narcissism. If you or a loved one needs help for a substance use disorder and a co-occurring  mental health disorder, you can find help for both at Chapters Recovery Center. We can provide a medically supervised detox (a necessity for alcohol withdrawal) and a range of outpatient programs, beginning with the most intensive partial hospitalization program (PHP). Moreover, narcissists who struggle with alcohol misuse may also have co-occurring disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This can further complicate their mental health conditions and lead to additional health problems. NPD is a mental health condition that affects how individuals view themselves and relate to others.

Conditions

The situation can become much worse when substance abuse is involved, especially when dealing with an alcoholic narcissist. NPD is a mental health condition in which a person displays a pattern of grandiose behavior, lack of empathy for others, and need for excessive attention and admiration 2. An alcoholic narcissist is an individual who merges the struggles of alcohol dependence with the challenging traits of narcissistic personality disorder. This combination sees the harmful effects of excessive drinking intertwining with behaviors typical of narcissism. Often, alcohol misuse intensifies narcissistic traits, resulting in complicated and harmful actions. Integrated treatment approaches recognize the interplay between these disorders and provide comprehensive care.

NPD diagnosis

For NPD, mood changes often relate to perceived slights or lack of admiration. In AUD, mood swings are typically tied to intoxication and withdrawal. Treatment may involve detoxification, counseling, and support groups to address both physical and psychological aspects of addiction. AUD often develops gradually, with tolerance and withdrawal symptoms emerging over time. In a conflict, a narcissist will turn everything around on you, gaslight, and refuse to apologize or agree to change. By Michelle PugleMichelle Pugle writes health articles for award-winning websites, as seen in Healthline, Verywell, Everyday Health, and Psych Central.

• From the very first day of alcohol detox and all the way through the discharge process and beyond, you will be able to tackle the causes of addiction head on with full support along the way.
• Recognizing these commonalities can help you understand and cope with people who have Narcissistic Personality Disorder, untreated alcoholism, or both.
• Exercise, meditation, and journaling can help manage stress when dealing with a narcissistic alcoholic.

Overlapping causes and risk factors

So, understanding this relationship is necessary for addressing both conditions effectively. Mental health disorders and substance misuse often intersect, creating complex challenges for those affected. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is prevalent, impacting millions worldwide, and often coexists with other psychological conditions. According to recent studies, approximately 14.5 million Americans aged 12 and older had AUD in 2019, highlighting the widespread nature of this issue. narcissist or alcoholic Here, we aim to explore the relationship between alcoholism and narcissism as they frequently go hand in hand and reinforce each other. Understanding this connection is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.