When the powerful Category 5 storm struck Jamaica on the 28th of October with winds of 185mph, it left behind a picture of catastrophic damage. Dwellings, medical facilities, and key utilities were severely compromised, causing 32 deaths and impacting an staggering 1.5 million. For mental health expert Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the tangible destruction would be shadowed by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Commonplace sounds can trigger them,” Ifill states. “A patient described a cart we often push through the halls, whose sound reminded her of splintering trees and the roaring storm. She now refuses to hearing that particular noise.”
A month and a half after the hurricane, which also impacted neighboring Cuba, recollections of the horrific event continue to trouble some staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of a downpour can now cause trauma responses among those who lived through it.
The Unseen Cost Amidst Billions in Damage
The catastrophic event led to a significant recovery package worth up to up to $6.7bn over a three-year period and an additional payment of millions from a innovative risk financing tool. But, authorities note this economic assistance does not address the unseen cost: pervasive mental health crises—especially among those who had been recovering from another major storm in 2024.
While most attention targets physical reconstruction, research over the past three years demonstrate that the likelihood of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rises markedly after climate disasters and displacement. Experts are now calling for the integration of psychological care into disaster response plans across Caribbean nations.
Compounded Vulnerabilities: Loss and Mental Health
Scholars stress how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and poor access to care exacerbate emotional distress. A 2023 Caribbean-focused paper identified a clear threat of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after natural disasters. Further research found similar anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people affected by other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has studied disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors could face several key emotional obstacles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a scholar in risk reduction, concurs. She points out that while individuals can be strong, as the frequency of disasters increases, mental health is becoming an ever more critical issue—although comprehensive data is often insufficient.
These experts found that women affected reported more severe emotional impact than men. “This suggests women are more psychologically vulnerable than males during these events,” Smith comments.
The Long Road to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some initial improvement in well-being is often seen within a year of the event, long-term outcomes are still unclear. The extent to which survivors heal depends heavily on the circumstances of their suffering and the support available.
The experts note that the being rendered homeless and resources can magnify the emotional challenge to recover. Smith labels housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” especially when people have no economic cushion. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she emphasizes.
Ifill sees the parallel situation among her patients: “Those who had pre-existing mental health challenges have noticed it’s much more severe in this aftermath.”
Beyond the psychological impact, physical challenges remain. The hurricane severely damaged vital water infrastructure, slowing the complete restoration of water services. Financial aid, while crucial, are insufficient to fix the systemic weaknesses laid bare by the storm.
Social Support as a Critical Foundation
A key finding is that material recovery fails to mend the psychological injuries caused by life-altering injuries. Research indicates that survivors frequently report social networks to be more immediate than government assistance.
“The government’s role is essential,” Smith says. “In its absence, or when it is inefficient, neighbors provide mutual aid.”
Ifill notes the value of mutual support in coping with disaster. She recalls being “moved by the positive attitude” among resilient populations. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they find lightness about the storm.”
Ifill also praises efforts to support emotional well-being after the disaster but advises about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “The guidance included reducing screen time, following official updates, and turning to apps to connect with family.”
An Increasing Global Recognition
Over the past decade, psychological support has received more focus from world bodies due to the escalating climate emergency. The increasing frequency of extreme weather has led to the development of guidelines for psychological first aid.
Major health organizations have published comprehensive manuals to help field workers in offering psychological care in the wake of traumatic events. These initiatives aim to foster community and personal strength by training professionals, reducing shame, and facilitating the access to psychological care.
Monetary support are also identified as fundamental for preserving psychological recovery. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a past disaster, stresses the despair that arises when expected aid is not delivered. “Assessments were made... But up to this day, we did not receive any payment,” he recounts.
An Appeal for Comprehensive Recovery
Leaders observe that the Caribbean region accounts for a very small fraction of planetary pollution yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed essential to prevent enduring trauma.
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