The problem
Gambling addiction (GD) is a repeated, compulsive behaviour that adversely affects an individual’s interpersonal or social functioning. It is not a new phenomenon but has become a bigger problem for society, as access to gambling has become more readily available. People no longer need to travel to an event or go to a bookmaker to place a bet.
In the internet age, gambling can be accessed online at the touch of a button, without the need to leave home or even get out of bed. Because it is an activity that can be done in isolation, it may not be obvious to others that a gambling problem exists.
GD is now recognised as a significant social and personal problem within the UK and around the world.
Exact figures are difficult to obtain, partly due to the variation in definitions used and the sparsity of reliable data. However conservative estimates state that 1% to 4% of the general population gamble to a level that very seriously impacts on their financial resources.
Problem gamblers have limited access to effective healthcare or treatment, with surprisingly few resources available to them, especially in more remote areas. Usually addicts turn to their doctor, who are not trained or properly equipped to deal with the problem effectively. This often results in ineffective prescriptions which only address a small part of the problem, or in some cases, make the situation worse.
The Habet virtual healthcare platform connects problem gamblers with an extensive network of trained addiction specialists and healthcare professionals around the world.
The platform merges traditional web services with online 3D virtual technology. Users have 24 / 7 access to healthcare from carefully selected addiction specialists and can easily conduct their appointments online from the comfort of their own home.
The 3D virtual space we are developing is named the Habetat. This powerful tool gives users the opportunity to anonymously meet other gambling addicts and engage in immersive virtual treatments with their chosen practitioner in a beautifully designed, calming virtual environment.
Users have the ability to create and modify their own unique avatar, which they can use to explore and interact with the world. The Habetat virtual space will be familiar to many modern gambling addicts who are experienced with online video games and virtual gambling environments, which have played a big part in the extraordinary rise in gambling addiction.
Users can also choose to book and take their appointments online via the Habet website. We will offer text, voice and video calls, so there is an option to suit everyone.