I think that when alcohol started to make me sad and angry thats when I noticed more.
I hated alcohol and what it did to me. Blackouts made me angry. Drinking everyday made me sad.
It was compounded by the fact it seemed such a big part of everyday life. The way to celebrate is with booze. The way to get over something bad is to drink.
Like you say births and deaths are marked by drink.
In soaps on the TV they all go to the pub twice a day and drink.
Being a wine buff is seen as a sign of intelligence.
Talking about wine is seen as an interesting conversation.
Facebook is dominated by people boozing. Your popular if you booze.
I don't know if I would say they have a 'problem' with alcohol as I understand a 'problem' to be.
However I think it is too much of a feature of everyday life and its not just you, I notice it too.
My best to you
xx