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10 Ways Narcissists and Alcoholics Are Similar

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Combined treatment for SUDs and mental illness has proved to be consistently superior compared to separate treatments for each condition. Treating only one increases the chances of relapse. The co-occurring conditions may begin at the same time and overlap. In any case, the two co-occurring disorders can interact in a manner that makes the severity of both of them worse.

Dual diagnosis

People with narcissism believe their version of reality is accurate and can be unconcerned with the damage that their arrogant and manipulative behavior does to other people. NPD is a personality disorder and AUD is an addiction. While different, they can co-occur and they share similarities. People with NPD and AUD may avoid taking responsibility, have a lack of self-awareness, live with grandiosity, and may be practiced in manipulating others to get their own way.

• Drugs and alcohol ultimately become coping mechanisms for their unhappy internal state.
• To an alcoholic narcissist, drinking becomes one of their layers of defense.
• If you answered “yes” to most of the questions above, speaking with a therapist might be a good idea.
• Before we go further, it’s important to understand the terminology used in this article.
• Narcissists almost never apologize or promise to change their ways.

Furthermore, alcoholic narcissist has an exceptionally difficult time admitting that they have a problem. In general, narcissists don’t like to accept responsibility for what they say and do. When they abuse alcohol and develop a dependence on drinking, they may not accept or admit that there’s anything wrong with their life. At the Blackberry Center, our dual diagnosis program is tailored to each individual to treat their unique circumstances and symptoms. We specialize in guiding patients through the process of recovery step by step. The MCMI-IV is an inventory designed to help assess, diagnose, and provide treatment options for individuals with personality disorders.

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Alcoholics and narcissists will both become defensive once they are confronted about it. They also might attack people who point out what they’re trying to hide or deny. Alcoholics will have lots of excuses for their drinking. Alcoholics believe that drinking is the most important thing, even at the expense of their loved ones needs.

It can be fun and relaxing to go out for drinks with your friends on Friday nights after a long work week or have a cocktail before bed. Many people drink alcohol and do so regularly, but how do you know when your drinking has become a problem? However, there are many correlations between the two, which are most often displayed by alcoholics. You don’t have to try to cope with life and addiction all on your own. Reach out to us now, no matter the time of day or night, even if you’re not sure what you want to do yet and just need someone to listen. Through setting these boundaries, along with those specific to alcoholism, you will begin to regain control over your life and improve your relationship.