A clip from singer Ed Sheeran's 2025 appearance on "The Louis Theroux Podcast" has recently recirculated on social media, igniting a debate about the distinctions between British and American perspectives on alcohol consumption.

In the clip, Sheeran stated, "Americans call something ‘alcoholism’ that Brits simply call ‘culture.’ Maybe one or two pints at the end of a workday." He further elaborated, "On a Friday you’ll have six pints and a bottle of wine. It’s not alcoholism to drink every day here … It’s just the culture."

Public health experts note that while overall alcohol consumption may be similar between Americans and Britons—with the World Health Organization reporting an average of approximately 9.7 liters of pure alcohol per adult annually worldwide—drinking patterns and social attitudes can vary significantly.

In the United Kingdom, pubs are often seen as community hubs, and alcohol is integrated into the social fabric for many. Conversely, attitudes toward drinking in the United States tend to be more diverse, influenced by regional differences, religious beliefs, and varying social norms.

Jessica Steinman, chief clinical officer at No Matter What Recovery in Los Angeles, highlighted these cultural divergences. "Americans can’t legally drink until 21, and it is frowned upon to do so before that age," she told Fox News Digital. "In England, there is less stigma and restrictions around alcohol, which changes how people view it and drink it."

Steinman emphasized that regardless of cultural background, a problem arises when alcohol use negatively impacts an individual's life or when they lose control over their drinking. "When drinking gets in the way of a job, school or relationships — or when people start numbing out from difficult feelings or escaping their problems through alcohol — it isn’t just cultural drinking, it’s an addiction," she said.

She expressed concern that individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) might misinterpret or rationalize their drinking habits as normal within their local culture, potentially delaying recognition of the issue and hindering them from seeking help.

Chris Tuell, EdD., clinical director of addiction services at Lindner Center of HOPE, echoed this sentiment, stating that Sheeran's comments illustrate how cultural perceptions shape views on alcohol. "What is considered ‘normal’ in one country may seem excessive in another," Tuell told Fox News Digital. "In parts of the UK, Ireland, Germany, Australia or even parts of the US, drinking is woven into sporting events, celebrations, work gatherings and family traditions."

However, Tuell cautioned that culture does not determine the presence of AUD. "The fact that something is common does not automatically make it healthy — the same principle applies to alcohol," he explained. "A person may live in a culture where drinking every evening is expected. Another person may rarely drink because their culture discourages alcohol altogether. Neither person’s cultural background alone tells us whether alcohol is helping or hurting them."

Tuell pointed out that two individuals consuming the same quantity of alcohol weekly can experience vastly different outcomes. One person might drink socially, maintain healthy relationships, and perform well at work, while another might face escalating anxiety, strained relationships, poor sleep, financial difficulties, and declining health.

He advised paying close attention to specific patterns that may indicate AUD, such as difficulty controlling drinking, drinking more than intended, spending excessive time obtaining or recovering from alcohol use, continuing to drink despite negative consequences on relationships or health, and giving up important activities due to drinking.

"Ultimately, AUD is measured less by how much a person drinks and more by how much alcohol has begun to take from their life," Tuell said. "That perspective moves us beyond stereotypes and cultural expectations. It replaces judgment with curiosity, stigma with understanding, and shame with the opportunity for honest self-reflection and meaningful change."

Tuell identified comparison as a significant barrier to recognizing a drinking problem, citing phrases like "everyone I know drinks this much" or "my family drinks every day." He stressed that such comparisons can be misleading, comparing it to individuals with high blood pressure believing their condition is normal because it's common in their family.

Experts recommend consulting a healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance if experiencing symptoms of alcohol use disorder.