When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on October 28th with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it left behind a landscape of catastrophic damage. Dwellings, hospitals, and key utilities were destroyed, resulting in 32 deaths and affecting an estimated 1.5 million people. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was instantly apparent that the tangible destruction would be accompanied by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Simple occurrences can trigger them,” Ifill states. “A patient spoke of a cart we often push through the passageways, whose clatter reminded her of breaking wood and the fierce gales. She no longer wants to experiencing that particular noise.”
A month and a half after the catastrophe, which also impacted parts of Cuba, recollections 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 elicit stress reactions among those who lived through it.
The Hidden Toll Beyond Economic Reconstruction
This disaster triggered a significant financial package valued at billions of dollars over three years and an extra payment of $150m from a groundbreaking risk financing tool. Yet, experts warn this monetary aid does not address the unseen cost: extensive emotional suffering—particularly among those who had been recovering from another major storm in 2024.
Although the lion's share of effort targets restoring buildings, studies over the past three years indicate that the likelihood of PTSD grows substantially after climate disasters and displacement. Researchers are now urging the incorporation of psychological care into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Compounded Vulnerabilities: Insecurity and Mental Health
Academics stress how extended displacement, destroyed jobs, and poor access to care amplify mental health risks. A 2023 Caribbean-focused paper identified a heightened danger of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after climate-related events. Another study documented parallel fear, anxiety, and distress among people who survived other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has studied disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors could face a trio of psychological hurdles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in risk reduction, concurs. She points out that while humans are generally resilient, as the frequency of disasters increases, mental health is becoming an ever more critical issue—although comprehensive data is not widely available.
The researchers found that women experienced greater psychological suffering than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.
The Difficult Journey to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy says that while some short-term recovery in mental health is often seen within a year of the event, the ultimate prognosis remain uncertain. The degree to which survivors recover is largely determined by the specific triggers and the resources accessible.
The experts see that the destruction of property and resources can magnify the emotional challenge to start over. Smith describes housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” notably when people have no economic cushion. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she emphasizes.
Ifill observes the same pattern among her patients: “People who had pre-existing mental health challenges have found it’s much more severe in this short period of time.”
Apart from the mental impact, tangible problems persist. The hurricane wiped out key water infrastructure, hampering the full return of water services. Monetary relief, while crucial, cannot resolve the deep-seated infrastructure problems revealed by the storm.
Grassroots Support as a Vital Lifeline
Critically is that rebuilding alone fails to mend the deep sorrow caused by life-altering injuries. Studies shows that survivors commonly experience help from neighbors to be more immediate than official aid.
“Official action is crucial,” Smith acknowledges. “When it is lacking, or when it is delayed, local people support one another.”
Ifill notes the strength of mutual support in overcoming challenges. She says she was “impressed by the positive attitude” among resilient populations. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they make jokes about the storm.”
Additionally, she commends efforts to promote mental health awareness after the disaster but advises about the dangers of doomscrolling. “I recommended limiting social media, trusting verified sources, and turning to apps to connect with family.”
An Increasing Global Recognition
Over the past decade, psychological support has become a higher priority from international agencies due to the intensifying climate crisis. The increasing frequency of hurricanes has led to the development of frameworks for mental health response.
Major health organizations have released practical guides to assist responders in providing emotional aid in the immediate period of catastrophes. These projects aim to build community and personal strength by educating caregivers, combating stigma, and encouraging the use of mental health services.
Monetary support are also highlighted as fundamental for preserving psychological recovery. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a past disaster, stresses the hopelessness that arises when expected aid is not delivered. “Officials visited... But even now, we were not granted compensation,” he says.
A Call for Comprehensive Recovery
Experts argue that the Caribbean region is responsible for a very small fraction of global emissions yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed critical to avoid prolonged suffering.
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