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Ed Sheeran's claim that daily drinking is 'culture' could mask addiction, experts say
British singer Ed Sheeran's comments describing daily alcohol consumption as 'culture' sparked debate. US addiction experts warn that cultural habits can conceal alcohol use disorder.
British singer Ed Sheeran's comments on a podcast, describing daily alcohol consumption as 'culture', drew a response from addiction experts. Sheeran had said, "Americans call what we call 'culture' 'alcoholism'. Maybe a beer or two after work... On Friday, six beers and a bottle of wine. Here, drinking every day isn't alcoholism, it's just culture."
Experts emphasize that Sheeran's remark shows how culture shapes the perception of alcohol, but cultural prevalence can mask a problem. According to World Health Organization data, Americans and Britons consume an average of 9.7 litres of pure alcohol per year.
The line between culture and addiction
Jessica Steinman, chief clinical officer at No Matter What Recovery in Los Angeles, noted that there is less stigma and fewer restrictions around alcohol in the UK. Steinman said, "No matter where a person lives or what their culture is, when alcohol or substances start to negatively impact their life, or the person can't control their drinking, that's a problem."
Chris Tuell, clinical director of addiction services at the Lindner HOPE Center, said, "Just because something is common doesn't automatically make it healthy; the same principle applies to alcohol." Tuell noted that among two people who consume the same amount of alcohol, one may drink socially and maintain healthy relationships, while the other may experience anxiety, sleep problems and relationship issues.
Signs of alcohol use disorder
Chris Tuell listed the warning signs that could indicate alcohol use disorder:
- Difficulty controlling drinking
- Drinking more than planned
- Spending increasing amounts of time obtaining alcohol or recovering from its effects
- Continuing to drink despite relationship problems
- Continuing to drink despite health problems
- Continuing to drink even if depression or anxiety worsens
- Giving up important activities because of drinking
- Drinking in dangerous situations
- Developing tolerance to alcohol
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
Tuell said, "Ultimately, alcohol use disorder is measured not so much by how much a person drinks, but by how much alcohol takes away from their life," and recommended that anyone experiencing symptoms seek help from a healthcare provider.
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