Alcohol is consumed widely in almost all except Islamic countries of the world. Consumption levels vary widely by region and within individual countries, although generally higher levels of consumption can be found in more developed, higher income, and European countries. The negative consequences of alcohol ‘misuse’ can include short- and long-term health and social problems for drinkers, and for their families and wider society. Such problems are further shaped by multiple socioeconomic and contextual factors. The widespread yet complex nature of these problems means that a basic understanding of both alcohol misuse and brief interventions is essential for social workers.