6 Traits of Covert Narcissism

Further research into the causes of AUD might help experts develop more treatment options. People who are genetically predisposed to experience unpleasant side effects of drinking are less likely to drink often, making AUD unlikely. However, research from 2014 tells us that genetics might play a part in whether some people develop NPD. It’s worth noting that the DSM-5-TR doesn’t use the term “alcoholism,” but the term is still used colloquially to refer to AUD. In order to get a diagnosis of AUD, you have to fit certain diagnostic criteria as set out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR). Someone who’s narcissistic might be self-absorbed and have an inflated sense of self-importance.

By way of example, a person must meet five of nine possible criteria for NPD to be diagnosed, ranging from grandiosity to a lack of empathy. Their vulnerability as narcissists is reflected in anger and aggression, envy, helplessness, feelings of emptiness, low self-esteem, and shame. When it comes to alcohol addiction and narcissism, there are some uncanny similarities that can leave loved ones confused, frustrated, and emotionally drained.

Is there a link between narcissism and addiction?

You might also consider seeing a therapist who can provide you with coping tools and a means to sort out your feelings. This is especially true if you have conflicted emotions and are reluctant to speak with others who might judge you or your relationship. Reach out to loved ones you trust who can walk with you through the recovery journal. Treating each condition alcohol addiction and drug rehab centers in california 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.

1. For AUD to be diagnosed, a person must meet one of four possible criteria for alcohol abuse, three of seven possible criteria for alcohol dependence, and two of 12 possible criteria for AUD symptoms.
2. People with covert narcissism can come across as cold, callous, or uncaring.
3. The main treatment for NPD is talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy.
4. One example is being referred to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) on the presumption of AUD.
5. This might include joining Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs that offer nonjudgmental peer support to others living with AUD.

Some narcissists may go back and forth between overt and covert presentations. Keep in mind that no two people with covert narcissism will have the exact same symptoms, either. In a nutshell, grandiose narcissists may feel proud of their excessive alcohol use, and the problems it can cause, if it makes them stand out. Meanwhile, vulnerable stimulant overdose drug overdose cdc injury center narcissists deal with inner shame that can make them more likely to develop alcohol abuse problems later on as a way to cope. Although it may be impossible to prevent NPD, people can take steps to reduce the risk of developing additional disorders through the understanding that it is common for substance misuse disorders to co-occur.

A 2018 meta-analysis looked 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. Both grandiose and vulnerable narcissism are strong predictors of alcohol-related problems, according to a 2018 study of 345 college students.

What to Do If Someone You Know Has Both Alcoholic & Narcissistic Traits

In summary, whether alcohol is to blame or not, having a person with narcissistic traits in your life can be exhausting and upsetting. Whether or not this person decides to seek treatment, don’t overlook your well-being and your right to a healthy, happy life. A 2020 review of research on narcissism and substance use disorders fentanyl laced weed concludes that low self-esteem that requires external validation from others can increase the risk of substance use disorders. As a result, these individuals require others to affirm their importance and value. Once they receive this affirmation, they experience grandiosity and may behave in an arrogant and entitled way.

Covert narcissism (also known as vulnerable narcissism) is the more introverted side of NPD. A covert narcissist experiences the same insecurities as an overt narcissist, but internalizes their self-importance, often while hyper-focusing on their need for attention. It is not uncommon for two mental health conditions to co-exist (referred to as a comorbidity). Covert narcissist traits may reflect a different subtype or more subtle presentation of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD).

Narcissism and alcoholism are different conditions, but they can occur simultaneously and may share some overlapping symptoms. While both conditions can be challenging, certain approaches can help individuals overcome the potential complications of these disorders. A 2018 study found that people with personality disorders were more likely to have AUD at some point in their lives.

Treating Alcoholism and Narcissism

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 22.6% of people with a personality disorder may also have a substance misuse disorder. While narcissism is a personality disorder and alcoholism is an addiction, narcissists and alcoholics share several characteristics. Recognizing these commonalities can help you understand and cope with people who have Narcissistic Personality Disorder, untreated alcoholism, or both. But more specifically, covert narcissists tend to rely on self-deprecation and negative self-talk as a means of getting sympathy and attention from others.

Diagnosing Alcoholism and Narcissism

This article looks at the links between narcissism and addiction and explains why people with narcissism may be more likely than other people to engage in addictive behaviors. Risk factors for NPD include having difficult relationships with parents or caregivers during a person’s developmental years that may include excessive praise or criticism. The study commented that people who show grandiose traits may have feelings of importance in an environment of drinking where this quality may thrive.

For NPD, it may involve individual or group counseling using cognitive behavioral therapy, schema-focused therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. For AUD, group approaches such as AA and other twelve-step addiction programs are common. The treatment of NPD and AUD should ideally be delivered simultaneously, especially if there is severe addiction or depression. With that said, there are challenges to delivering appropriate care for the dual diagnosis.

The number of criteria a person meets determines whether they have AUD, and if so, the severity of the condition. A 2014 study into narcissism and the use of internet pornography found a direct correlation between hours spent viewing pornographic material and the extent of narcissism. It also found that people who watch internet pornography are more likely to have narcissism than people who do not. Following alcohol guidelines can help people stay within moderate levels of alcohol consumption. 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.

A 2015 study of college sexual assaults revealed that perpetrators scored highly on a narcissistic personality scale after completing a questionnaire. Narcissism may leave people more prone to problematic substance use, including alcohol use disorder, as well as other forms of addiction, such as sex addiction and social media addiction. 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. 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.