Domestic Violence Prevention

Published on October 09, 2023

Exposure to traumatic events such as violence, abuse, catastrophic events, or grave injustice can significantly increase our chances of long-term illness, depression, and premature death. Violence is an urgent public health problem.  From infants to the elderly, it affects people in all stages of life and can lead to a lifetime of physical, emotional, and economic problems. 

As part of its SA Forward Plan to address health inequities that exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic, Metro Health is committed to preventing violence so that everyone can be safe and healthy. The Violence Prevention Section at Metro Health has expanded direct services for victims of domestic violence by adding staff dedicated to crisis advocacy and case management. The Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) has also seen an increase in personnel to offer its curriculum to people involved in the justice system. Triple P classes give parents and guardians the tools to confidently navigate parenting situations by promoting positive behavior within the family.

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), observed in October, is a time to recognize victims and raise awareness about the devastating impact of domestic violence. Metro Health will be engaging in the Purple Porch SA campaign, a month-long campaign that aims to increase awareness and support to end domestic violence. Starting on October 1, residents, organizations, and businesses can participate by lighting or decorating their porch with a purple color to spread awareness about domestic violence and support healing among survivors. San Antonians can amplify their involvement by posting a picture on their social media channels and using #PurplePorchSA.

Violence has immediate and long-term impacts on the health of individuals, families, and communities. If left unaddressed, the rise of interpersonal violence, combined with pandemic related mental health illness, could have a profound impact on health outcomes in San Antonio and Bexar County. View more information on violence prevention efforts.