How to Deal with an Alcoholic Narcissist: Strategies for Setting Boundaries and Self-Care

However, it is more likely that the alcoholic is trying to surround themselves with others that support these extreme drinking habits. ​​​​When someone is deep in an alcohol addiction, they become very self-absorbed. To friends, family, and even coworkers, it can seem as though the alcoholic will sacrifice everything to be able to drink. When it comes to alcohol addiction and narcissism, there are some uncanny similarities that can leave loved ones confused, frustrated, and emotionally drained. They often depend on alcoholism to cover the shortcomings of their character and also their individuality.

Approaches to Addressing the Behavior

Another reason narcissists are at risk of becoming addicted to alcohol is that they believe they’re impervious to its negative effects. When intoxicated, they may use alcohol to dominate others, manipulate situations, or maintain a sense of superiority. Alcohol can provide a temporary sense of being cared for or admired, which is particularly appealing to individuals with an underlying sense of emotional deprivation. We talk loudly, interrupt people, and generally behave as if no one else’s feelings matter. When we drink, our inhibitions fall away, and we start to believe we are the most attractive, funniest, and cleverest person in the room.

Conditions

After just a few drinks, some narcissists unleash the level of narcissism that only someone paralytic would display. And the narcissist happily lets people believe their behaviour was down to the drink. This shows how alcohol magnifies undesirable behaviors for all people. But for narcissists prone to aggression, isolation, and emotional volatility, the effects are particularly amplified.

Why is it important to set boundaries when dealing with a drunk narcissist?

• Remember that a person with both alcoholic and narcissistic traits may need to get professional help before they can have a healthy relationship with you again.
• Some of the behaviors exhibited by dry drunks are very similar to those seen in people suffering from narcissistic personality disorder.
• They will do anything to avoid scrutinizing their inner selves, even if it means drinking so much that it hurts their lives.
• Narcissists hold values such as perfection, winning, superiority, and status in the hope that doing so will bring them greater attention and approval.
• Alcohol use disorder is a type of substance use disorder where a person cannot control or stop their alcohol use.

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. Narcissism and alcohol use can share some signs and symptoms. 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. For males, the guidelines advise no more than two units per day. People with AUD may have self-awareness of their condition and a desire to change.

• And recovering narcissistic addicts have high relapse rates.
• After just a few drinks, some narcissists unleash the level of narcissism that only someone paralytic would display.
• One study investigated alcohol and narcissism in college students.
• ​​​​When someone is deep in an alcohol addiction, they become very self-absorbed.

They try to conceal their narcissism by depending on alcoholism. Narcissists use alcohol to escape from their responsibilities, insecurities, feelings, emotions, and inadequacy. They believe narcissism and alcoholism that alcohol provides them an escape to a world where they are worry-free, boss of their feelings and thoughts, and ruler of their fantasy kingdom. Thus they believe alcohol gives them an escape from the reality of life and situations.

Narcissists May Be More Likely to Struggle with Alcohol Use Problems

• Vulnerable narcissism features traits like low self-esteem, helplessness, and rejection sensitivity.
• Traits like narcissism and personality disorders like NPD are long-standing.
• There’s little data on whether people with both NPD and AUD have a different outlook than people who have only one of the conditions.
• So some genuine elements of the narcissist‘s character may come out through drunken behaviors.
• People who display addictive behaviors in addition to narcissistic traits may require a substance abuse treatment program that is equipped to treat co-occurring disorders.

Both narcissistic personality disorder and alcoholism are treatable conditions, but getting an alcoholic narcissist to accept help is notoriously difficult. If the situation becomes overwhelming or impacts your mental health significantly, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. A therapist or counselor can provide guidance, support, and coping strategies tailored to your specific circumstances. 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. Personality disorders are mental health conditions involving pervasive and often destructive personality traits.

Overlapping symptoms

Refuse to enable the narcissist’s harmful actions by covering up for them or making excuses. Hold them accountable for their behavior and avoid rescuing them from the consequences of their actions. They will often be convinced that they’re entitled to do whatever they want and that their drinking isn’t a problem but a social benefit. If the situation becomes physically or emotionally unsafe, prioritize your safety. Remove yourself from harmful situations, and seek assistance if needed. Self-care is crucial for maintaining your resilience and emotional strength.