When the devastating cyclone struck Jamaica on October 28th with winds of 185mph, it resulted in a picture of utter destruction. Homes, medical facilities, and vital systems were destroyed, leading to 32 deaths and disrupting the lives of an staggering 1.5 million. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the material damage would be accompanied by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Commonplace sounds can provoke them,” Ifill notes. “An individual spoke of a cart we often move through the corridors, whose sound evoked memories of breaking wood and the fierce gales. She now refuses to listening to that auditory reminder.”
Over six weeks after the hurricane, which also impacted parts of Cuba, memories of the horrific event continue to trouble a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of a downpour can now prompt panic among individuals who endured it.
The Hidden Toll Amidst Financial Losses
The catastrophic event triggered a substantial aid package worth up to up to $6.7bn over several years and an further payout of millions from a pioneering catastrophe bond. Yet, authorities note this economic assistance does not address the psychological cost: widespread trauma—particularly among those still recovering from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
Whereas the lion's share of effort centers on restoring buildings, studies over the last several years demonstrate that the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rises markedly after hurricanes and losing one's home. Mental health professionals are now urging the inclusion of mental health support into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Compounded Vulnerabilities: Insecurity and Mental Health
Scholars highlight how long-term dislocation, destroyed jobs, and inadequate services amplify emotional distress. A recent regional study warned of a clear threat of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after extreme weather. Additional analysis documented similar psychological turmoil among people displaced by other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a academic who has examined disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors typically experience a trio of mental health challenges: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in disaster studies, concurs. She observes that while individuals can be strong, as the climate crisis worsens, emotional fallout is becoming an increasingly significant issue—even though extensive research is not widely available.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that female survivors showed more severe emotional impact than men. “This suggests women are more susceptible than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.
The Long Road to Healing
Dr. Heanoy says that while some short-term recovery in well-being can happen within a year, the lasting effects can be unpredictable. The likelihood to which survivors heal hinges on the nature of the trauma and the support available.
The experts note that the destruction of property and possessions can intensify the psychological burden to rebuild. Smith labels housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” notably when financial safety nets are absent. “Rebuilding comes with its own mental burden,” she emphasizes.
Ifill witnesses the identical trend among her patients: “Individuals who had previous psychological issues have found it’s much more severe in this time since the storm.”
In addition to the mental impact, physical issues remain. The hurricane wiped out critical water infrastructure, delaying the full return of potable water. Financial aid, while helpful, are insufficient to fix the chronic vulnerabilities revealed by the storm.
Social Networks as a Essential Pillar
Perhaps most importantly is that rebuilding alone cannot heal the deep sorrow caused by the loss of loved ones. Research indicates that survivors often find social networks to be more responsive than official aid.
“State support is important,” Smith states. “When it is lacking, or when it is delayed, communities provide mutual aid.”
Ifill also highlights the value of community solidarity in overcoming challenges. She says she was “moved by the sense of humour” among resilient populations. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they make jokes about the storm.”
She further commends steps to encourage mental health awareness after the disaster but warns about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “I recommended curating news intake, sticking to reliable news, and leveraging technology to maintain social support.”
A Growing International Focus
Recently, mental health has garnered greater attention from world bodies due to the intensifying planetary changes. The rising occurrence of climate disasters has prompted the development of frameworks for psychological first aid.
Regional institutions have developed detailed resources to assist responders in providing psychological care in the immediate period of traumatic events. These efforts aim to build individual and social resilience by building capacity, combating stigma, and promoting the use of mental health services.
Economic aid are also highlighted as key for preserving mental health. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a previous flood, emphasizes the despair that arises when official support is not delivered. “They came... But to this date, we never got compensation,” he states.
A Call for Integrated Rebuilding
Experts argue that the Caribbean region is responsible for a very small fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet endures extreme climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed critical to prevent chronic psychological damage.
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