As the coronavirus pandemic closed down bars and forced everyone at home, a lot of people have resorted to happy hours in their abode. It's either done solo or with friends via Zoom. Creative, yes, but it can be detrimental to one's health as well.
Several liquor shops remained open as they have been deemed essential in many American states, which to many people is a blessing in a time when people are struggling to cope with anxiety and depression triggered by the global health crisis.
Behind all that is the alarming fact that more than 14 million American adults struggle with alcohol addiction. Worse than that is the fact that treatment centers are closed, and support groups have been suspended or canceled altogether.
And then Tempest happens. Holly Whitaker, the founder of the recovery start-up, is launching a treatment program for anyone struggling with alcohol and want to recover. The thing is, she's offering the program online -- and that's a good thing.
Tempest launched three new tech products in June to help customers recover without having to leave their homes. Whitaker says that COVID-19 has caused a spike in the number of people wanting their services. She acknowledges it's all due to closed recovery facilities and because many people want help in dealing with stress and uncertainty triggered by the pandemic.
Tempest initially provided its users an online program for eight weeks, which includes a post-treatment program for around $650. At the height of the pandemic, users have increased by 400%. Now Whitaker is adding more to their virtual classes, adding elements of telemedicine service, and digital and social media outreach. The company has grown a lot and now has some 40 employees.
"It creates more advocacy and engagement to create healthier people at a cheaper cost," Whitaker said. "This is where healthcare's going-putting the power in the people's hands to make the right choices and the right lifestyle changes."
The idea of Tempest came to Whitaker when she herself was struggling with alcohol. Launched in 2014 with the help of a $14 million in funding from Female Founders Fund, Slow Ventures, Maveron Capital, and others, the startup now provides sobriety workshops, virtual support groups, and telemedicine for alcohol abuse.
Tempest is also offering various content that covers nutrition, wellness, meditation, and virtual accountability coaches. Whitaker says more services will be added as the company grows.
If you are struggling with alcohol, you can enroll for a whole year of classes for as low as $150. You can view other courses and Tempest's full program here.
