Hi, strangetimes, from what you wrote, I believe your chances of making up with your wife and even improving your marriage as result of this separation are very good.
As you yourself noted at the beginning of your post the problem began with negativity and heavy drinking. Therefore, two key points for you to address are finding the root cause of your negativity and being honest with yourself about the drinking. 
Whether the negativity was caused by a temporary situation in your life or at least partially stemmed from a genetic condition like bipolar would require very different strategies, so you better be clear in your mind, perhaps by discussing with somebody you trust who's knowledgeable about this. 
I really don't know you well enough to tell you, sorry.
About the drinking, you should consider whether or not this was a unique binge or whether drinking is a chronic problem in your relationship. In the first case, not to worry, it happens, so just promise yourself you'll find a better way to cope with the next stressful period, which will surely come. Notice I said, "Promise yourself," not your wife. 
The promise to yourself is what you're going to show her, not tell her. On the other hand, if you have a history of heavy drinking, you may need to seek support for reducing, or in the case you're an alcoholic, entirely stopping drinking. 
I know that's hard, but believe me, it can be done.
I've personally seen my own wife do it. 
Self portrait of my wife. 
Post edited by: Saemonnojo, at: 01/11/2010 03:47 AM
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