Narcissism and Addiction: Is There a Connection?

We often see how narcissists harm those around them and the implications their actions have on the well-being of others. However, is it possible that these narcissists were once victims themselves, and these behaviors are a type of coping mechanism? Are narcissistic tendencies a defense for their own deeply rooted trauma? What might this mean for their struggles with addiction? Is there a connection between narcissism and addiction, and if so, how do individuals break the vicious cycle? 

When narcissism and addiction intersect, they can create a toxic cycle, which can be challenging to break. Narcissistic tendencies, which may include self-centeredness and lack of empathy, can exacerbate or intensify addictive behaviors. However, if someone can acknowledge the problem and ask for help, they can get better. West Coast Recovery Centers can help you or a loved one struggling with addiction, but only when people ask for help. Consider working with us if you are ready to seek help today. 

What Is a Narcissist?

To put it simply, people often describe a narcissist as someone who has an excessive sense of self-importance, a lack of empathy, and a need for admiration. Sometimes seen as a personality trait, in more severe cases, individuals are diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). In the publication Narcissistic Personality Disorder by Mitra, Torrico, and Fluyau, NPD is described as a “complex psychological condition that presents with a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy.” Individuals with NPD often have an inflated view of themselves, their ability, and their achievements, and believe they are exceptionally superior to others. 

 Some common traits of a narcissist include: 

• Grandiosity or seeing themselves as exceptional and imposing their superiority onto others
• Need for admiration which manifests as seeking attention, praise, and validation from other 
• Inability or unwillingness to recognize or care for others, or a complete lack of empathy 
• Manipulative behaviors by charming and deceiving people to maintain control and elevate status 
• Entitlement and thinking they deserve special treatment and may become angry when people do not meet their demands 

Of course, not every narcissist is the same. Personality traits exist on a spectrum and not everyone who exhibits these traits has NPD. In some cases, self-esteem and self-confidence simply cross the line into entitlement and lack of regard for others.  

What Are People Hiding Behind Their Narcissistic Tendencies?

Oftentimes, narcissism is about self-preservation. Individuals exhibiting narcissistic traits are looking to maintain an inflated sense of self as a way to protect themselves from pain or vulnerability. Unfortunately, these actions look like grandiosity, lack of empathy, and the exploitation of others. 

The overinflated self-image these individuals have can be a fragile facade. So, what are people hiding behind it? Well, people might be hiding a lot of things, such as insecurities and vulnerabilities or deeply rooted traumas. In these circumstances, the individual may not have a personality disorder but is behaving this way as a defense mechanism. The defense is working to protect them and cope with abuse, neglect, and emotional abandonment. 

Trauma, Narcissism and Addiction

One of the most troubling consequences of narcissism is its relationship with addiction. Individuals experiencing a constant need for validation and emotional control can leave them susceptible to addictive behaviors. Though narcissist behaviors can be interpreted as a coping mechanism, addiction, in this context, can also be viewed as a destructive coping mechanism. 

Of course, addiction is different for everyone. For some, addiction may act as a temporary escape from the constant need and pressure for control, validation, and an inflated sense of self. It may also provide relief from the emotional turmoil of past trauma. Further, substance use may be used to regulate emotions, especially when a narcissist struggling with their inability to connect with others and experience authentic emotions. 

Treating Narcissism and Addiction

A lot of this information may seem daunting or discouraging, but there is good news. Narcissism and addiction can be treated. The goal of treatment for NPD is often to help people develop a more realistic sense of self and improve their relationships with others. These treatments often utilize psychotherapies, including: 

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) 
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
• Psychodynamic therapy
• Group therapy 
• Metacognitive therapy 

Professionals may also work with these individuals to help them build empathy and develop self-regulation skills. Similarly, a variety of psychotherapies can help treat addiction, and in many cases, dual diagnosis treatment may be necessary.

In any case, there is a path toward healing for people struggling with narcissism and addiction. However, they must be willing to accept the problem and ask for help, which is exceptionally difficult for them to do. If, however, they are willing to take the first steps toward self-awareness, they can break free from these self-destructive cycles.  

For more information regarding addiction, dual diagnosis treatment, and our rehabilitation programs, contact West Coast Recovery Centers today. 

Though narcissism and addiction can both be unhealthy coping mechanisms for the same problem, they are sometimes intertwined. Narcissists often harm others through their behaviors. However, we must remember that their behaviors sometimes stem from their own unresolved trauma and deeply rooted emotional and psychological issues. Thankfully, there is a path toward healing. However, an inflated sense of self and potential inability to ask for help can make starting this journey more challenging. If an individual can develop the self-awareness to ask for help, they can transform their lives significantly. For more information, we encourage you to reach out to us at West Coast Recovery Centers by calling (760) 492-6509 today.