A recent comment by singer Ed Sheeran on his podcast appearances has reignited discussions about the perceived differences between British and American attitudes toward alcohol consumption and the definition of alcoholism.

In a resurfaced clip from "The Louis Theroux Podcast," Sheeran suggested that what some Americans might label as alcoholism, many in Britain consider "culture." He described a scenario where having "one or two pints at the end of a workday" or consuming multiple pints on a Friday evening is not seen as alcoholism but rather a cultural norm.

While overall alcohol consumption rates are similar between the U.S. and the U.K., with both countries' adults consuming approximately 9.7 liters of pure alcohol annually per the World Health Organization, drinking patterns and social attitudes vary, according to public health experts.

"In the U.K., pubs are commonly regarded as community gathering places, with alcohol representing a routine part of social life for many people," noted Jessica Steinman, chief clinical officer at No Matter What Recovery. "In the U.S., attitudes toward drinking tend to vary more widely by region, religion and social norms."

Steinman also pointed out the differing legal drinking ages and cultural stigmas. "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."

Defining Alcohol Use Disorder

Experts emphasize that regardless of cultural background or location, alcohol consumption becomes a problem when it 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," Steinman said. She expressed concern that individuals with alcohol use disorder might rationalize their behavior as normal cultural practice, hindering their recognition of the problem and their willingness to seek help.

Chris Tuell, Ed.D., clinical director of addiction services at Lindner Center of HOPE, echoed this sentiment, stating that cultural norms influence perceptions but do not determine the presence of alcohol use disorder (AUD).

"What is considered ‘normal’ in one country may seem excessive in another," Tuell explained. "The fact that something is common does not automatically make it healthy — the same principle applies to alcohol."

He further elaborated that an individual's cultural background alone does not indicate whether alcohol is beneficial or detrimental. Two individuals consuming the same amount of alcohol can experience vastly different outcomes. One might maintain healthy relationships and perform well at work, while the other experiences escalating anxiety, strained relationships, poor sleep, financial issues, and declining health.

Warning Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder

Tuell recommends paying attention to specific patterns that may indicate alcohol use disorder, moving beyond comparisons to cultural norms. These signs include:

  • Having difficulty controlling drinking
  • Drinking more than intended
  • Spending increasing amounts of time obtaining or recovering from alcohol
  • Continuing to drink despite relationship problems
  • Continuing to drink despite medical problems
  • Continuing to drink despite worsening depression or anxiety
  • Giving up important activities because of drinking
  • Drinking in dangerous situations
  • Developing a higher tolerance to alcohol
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms

"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 stated. He advised against relying on comparisons such as "everyone I know drinks this much" as a benchmark for healthy drinking, comparing it to the misconception that widespread high blood pressure makes hypertension less concerning.

Experts advise that anyone experiencing potential symptoms of alcohol use disorder should consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance.