10 Ways Narcissists and Alcoholics Are Similar

Covert narcissists may be more likely to engage in aggressive behaviors because of their tendency to interiorize their pain and resentment. This could lead them to act out suddenly and unexpectedly in some situations. Someone with covert narcissism will still present signs of grandiosity and have low empathy, but probably act in a more subtle way than someone with overt narcissism. On the other hand, though people with covert (or vulnerable) narcissism are just as self-absorbed, they’re typically perceived as more introverted, self-conscious, and insecure. People with covert narcissism also rely on others to build up their self-esteem. They react strongly to any perceived criticism that confirms their negative sense of self.

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. Because their need for self-importance reigns supreme, covert narcissists will do whatever they need to do in order to keep the focus on themselves.

Signs Of Alcoholism

Also, people with AUD might seem to behave similarly to people with narcissistic traits. A 2018 study examined the link between narcissism and alcohol use based on a survey of 345 college students. It found that narcissism was a predictor of alcohol consumption and alcohol-related problems. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 22.6% of people with a personality disorder also have a substance use disorder (SUD), which can include alcohol use.

Instead, they’re more likely to wait for an ideal opportunity to make the other person look bad or get revenge in some way. “People under deep pressure to be pleasing and likable to themselves have to go to great lengths to keep that up and preserve their self-esteem. Failing to keep up that illusion involves the bad feelings that come with the reality of failure,” Joseph says.

Do Narcissists Tend To Become Alcoholics?

There are usually some tells that will let you know if the narcissistic personality trait is the foundational piece of the puzzle. Many narcissists have success barriers that keep them struggling and prevent them from fulfilling their life’s goals. They may also have emotional barriers to keep someone from getting too close in fear of getting hurt. It’s also important to realize that narcissists often create a drug or alcohol problem to subconsciously put up barriers. Because of this, the end game should always be total healing of these relationships, including therapy with those that helped co-create it. For instance, the person who ends up being the primary “fixer” for a narcissist, with deep reflection may find that they relish the role of being needed.

One study investigated alcohol and narcissism in college students. The researchers found that grandiose narcissism, i.e., overt narcissism, was a positive predictor of alcohol consumption. People in this group were also less likely to see their alcohol use as a problem. If covert narcissism and alcoholism you have noticed signs of narcissism and drug addiction in yourself or someone you love, it is time to get help. The Dawn Wellness Centre and Rehab Thailand offers highly-personalised and integrated treatment plans for co-occurring disorders, addiction and other issues.

Considering professional support

Overt narcissism is easily recognized, but covert narcissism is not always as apparent until you recognize it by the manipulative behaviors of its practitioner. Many people with narcissism may also have an addiction to alcohol, sex, drugs, or social media. However, not everyone with narcissism has an addiction and vice versa. A 2018 meta-analysis looked https://ecosoberhouse.com/ at the results of 62 studies and found that grandiose narcissism has a moderate association with increased social network use. It found that individuals with grandiose narcissism have more friends and followers, post more often, and spend more time on social media than other people. People with NPD may be more likely to misuse alcohol and develop AUD.

If you feel lost about who you are as a person and where you are in life right now, there’s a way to get back on the path toward feeling more like your true self. Overt narcissism is what we tend to think of as the standard textbook definition of NPD. An overt narcissist comes off as self-absorbed, vain and outwardly expressive about their self-importance but tends to feel insecure, less-than and inadequate on the inside.