When the powerful Category 5 storm ravaged Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it left behind a picture of utter destruction. Residences, hospitals, and key utilities were leveled, resulting in the tragic loss of 32 lives and affecting an estimated 1.5 million individuals. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the tangible destruction would be paired with profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Everyday sounds can trigger them,” Ifill states. “An individual described a trolley we often roll through the halls, whose clatter sounded like cracking branches and the fierce gales. She now refuses to hearing that auditory reminder.”
Weeks after the hurricane, which also impacted eastern Cuba, flashbacks of the terrifying winds continue to affect a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of falling rain can now prompt trauma responses among survivors.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Billions in Damage
The catastrophic event triggered a significant aid package totaling up to $6.7bn over three years and an additional disbursement of millions from a innovative catastrophe bond. Yet, experts warn this economic assistance does not address the psychological cost: widespread trauma—notably among those previously affected from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
Whereas the lion's share of effort targets rebuilding infrastructure, academic work over the last several years indicate that the likelihood of PTSD grows markedly after major storms and displacement. Experts are now calling for the inclusion of psychological care into disaster response plans across the region.
Increased Risks: Loss and Mental Health
Researchers stress how long-term dislocation, vanishing incomes, and insufficient support amplify psychological vulnerabilities. A recent regional study flagged a heightened danger of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Another study documented similar fear, anxiety, and distress among people displaced by tropical cyclones.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has examined disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors typically experience several key psychological hurdles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a scholar in geography and disaster risk management, concurs. She points out that while people are often tough, as the frequency of disasters increases, psychological well-being is becoming an major issue—even though detailed prevalence surveys is not widely available.
The researchers found that women affected experienced greater psychological suffering than men. “This suggests women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.
The Uncertain Path to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy says that while some early progress in well-being can happen within a twelve-month period, the ultimate prognosis are still unclear. The degree to which survivors bounce back hinges on the nature of the trauma and the support available.
The experts see that the destruction of property and resources can heighten the mental struggle to start over. Smith describes housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” especially when people have no economic cushion. “Starting again comes with its own emotional tax,” she adds.
Ifill sees the same pattern among her those seeking help: “People who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s much more severe in this short period of time.”
Apart from the psychological impact, tangible issues continue. The hurricane destroyed key water infrastructure, slowing the reliable supply of clean water. Insurance payouts, while crucial, cannot resolve the chronic vulnerabilities exposed by the storm.
Grassroots Networks as a Essential Lifeline
Perhaps most importantly is that rebuilding alone cannot heal the deep sorrow caused by life-altering injuries. Research consistently finds that survivors often find help from neighbors to be more effective than official aid.
“Official action is essential,” Smith says. “In its absence, or when it is inefficient, local people keep each other whole.”
Ifill also highlights the power of mutual support in navigating hardship. She notes she was “moved by the positive attitude” among resilient populations. “Everything is destroyed, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they find lightness about the storm.”
She further acknowledges initiatives to support psychological self-care after the disaster but cautions about the harms of doomscrolling. “The guidance included curating news intake, trusting verified sources, and leveraging technology to maintain social support.”
An Expanding Global Recognition
Over the past decade, mental health has become a higher priority from international agencies due to the escalating climate emergency. The increasing frequency of climate disasters has prompted the development of frameworks for psychological first aid.
International bodies have published comprehensive manuals to train responders in providing psychosocial support in the aftermath of traumatic events. These initiatives aim to build psychological fortitude by educating caregivers, reducing shame, and encouraging the access to psychological care.
Monetary resources are also highlighted as crucial for safeguarding emotional well-being. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost everything in a previous flood, stresses the despair that arises when official support is not delivered. “They came... But even now, we never got any payment,” he says.
An Appeal for Comprehensive Recovery
Analysts note that the Caribbean region accounts for a very small fraction of planetary pollution yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed vital to avoid prolonged suffering.
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