Tom Conrad: Addiction Recovery Podcaster
Tom Conrad: Addiction Recovery Podcaster
584: Addiction or Narcissism? How to Tell the Difference (Professional Opinion)
584: Addiction or Narcissism? How to Tell the Difference (Professional Opinion)
584: Addiction or Narcissism? How to Tell the Difference (Professional Opinion)
Wednesday 10th December 2025
Explore the differences between narcissism and addiction with Tom Conrad and guest Maya in this insightful episode of Real Recovery Talk.
44 minutes
Informative
Inspiring
Honest
Educational
Supportive
About this podcast
Author:
Tom Conrad: Addiction Recovery Podcaster
Overview:
Categories:
Recovery Reimagined
Creative Recovery Journeys
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Family Recovery from Addiction
Recovery from Trauma
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Episodes:
498 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Addiction vs Narcissism: Spotting the Difference
Episode Overview
- Understand the root causes of narcissistic traits and addiction.
- Learn why empathy is crucial in distinguishing these conditions.
- Recognise the importance of self-care for those supporting loved ones.
- Avoid casually labelling behaviours without proper understanding.
- Discover how emotional dysregulation links to both conditions.
"Don't tell me what the alcohol and drugs did to you. Like, I'm very aware. Tell me what it was doing for you."
How do you tell if someone is struggling with addiction or if they're a narcissist? This episode of Real Recovery Talk, hosted by Tom Conrad, dives into this tricky question with the help of licensed mental health counsellor Maya. They unravel the complex differences between narcissistic traits and narcissistic personality disorder, and how these can sometimes be mistaken for behaviours associated with addiction.
Maya explains that while both conditions may exhibit similar behaviours like manipulation and lack of empathy, the root causes are often distinct. Narcissism, she notes, can stem from childhood trauma and a lack of emotional needs being met, whereas addiction can be more about coping mechanisms gone awry. The conversation touches on the challenges of diagnosing narcissism, especially in a culture quick to label anyone self-centred as a narcissist.
Maya stresses the importance of understanding the nuances and warns against casually throwing around such terms without proper knowledge. The episode also highlights the importance of self-care for those who have loved ones struggling with either condition. By focusing on their own wellbeing, they can create a healthier environment that might encourage change in others.
This episode offers a candid look at the intersections between narcissism and addiction, making it a must-listen for anyone grappling with these issues in their personal lives. So, do you think you can spot the difference between narcissism and addiction in your own life?