Houston sees a troubling rise in family violence, alarming health experts and prompting calls for intervention.
HOUSTON — Health experts are sounding the alarm as a troubling rise in family violence continues across Houston, calling it a growing public health crisis.
The most recent incident unfolded early Sunday morning in a neighborhood on Bigwood Drive. According to Houston police, a man stabbed and killed his stepson inside their home. It’s just one of several deadly family violence cases reported in recent weeks, and experts say these events are rarely isolated.
Red flags you shouldn’t ignore
Olivia Rivers, CEO of The Bridge Over Troubled Waters, a Houston-area crisis intervention organization, says there are emotional and behavioral warning signs that can signal danger early on.
“Jealousy. Possessiveness. Gaslighting. We see a lot of control and isolation,” Rivers said. “You know, we see family members monitoring your phone, controlling access, dictating what you wear, who you talk to.”
Experts stress that people often don’t know where to turn until it’s too late, which is why early intervention and access to resources are critical.
Where to get help
Support is available 24/7 for anyone experiencing family or domestic violence:
- The Bridge Over Troubled Waters offers crisis intervention and support services for those facing domestic or sexual violence.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 for confidential help any time.