Interesting, Ken. Yes, I have applied identification and detachment techniques to other kinds of negative thoughts. I've even applied them to less important things. Recently when I was on a long bike ride, I recognized and neutralized the voice of laziness, which was trying to tell me to slow down.
I don't think of my addiction as trying to hurt me, though certainly that would be one of the consequences of drinking. It just wants me to drink (too bad for it). The most negative kinds of thoughts -- shame, self-pity, resentment, fear -- those faded away in time. I suppose habitual abuse of a depressant is bound to cast a shadow across one's thoughts. Glad to be walking on the sunny side of the street now.