When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on 28 October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it left behind a scene of utter destruction. Homes, hospitals, and critical infrastructure were severely compromised, resulting in the tragic loss of 32 lives and disrupting the lives of an estimated 1.5 million people. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the tangible destruction would be paired with profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Everyday things can provoke them,” Ifill notes. “One woman described a cart we often move through the passageways, whose clatter sounded like breaking wood and the roaring storm. She now refuses to hearing that auditory reminder.”
Weeks after the catastrophe, which also impacted neighboring Cuba, recollections of the frightening storm 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 panic among those who lived through it.
The Hidden Toll Beyond Billions in Damage
The catastrophic event led to a substantial recovery package totaling billions of dollars over a three-year period and an extra disbursement of $150m from a pioneering disaster insurance instrument. Yet, authorities note this monetary aid cannot cover the unseen cost: pervasive mental health crises—notably among those still recovering from another major storm in 2024.
Whereas the primary focus is directed toward physical reconstruction, research over the recent years indicate that the probability of severe anxiety disorders rises substantially after climate disasters and displacement. Experts are now urging the incorporation of mental health support into climate-disaster policy across Caribbean nations.
Increased Risks: Displacement and Mental Health
Academics emphasize how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and poor access to care worsen psychological vulnerabilities. A recent regional study warned of a significant risk of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after extreme weather. Additional analysis recorded parallel fear, anxiety, and distress among people affected by tropical cyclones.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has studied disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors often encounter three primary mental health challenges: severe stress and mood disorders.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in disaster studies, echoes this view. She points out that while humans are generally resilient, as the frequency of disasters increases, emotional fallout is becoming an ever more critical issue—even though comprehensive data is not widely available.
The researchers found that women showed greater psychological suffering than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith explains.
The Difficult Journey to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy says that while some short-term recovery in well-being is often seen within a year of the event, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The likelihood to which survivors bounce back hinges on the circumstances of their suffering and the care they receive.
The experts see that the destruction of property and possessions can heighten the psychological burden to recover. Smith calls housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” particularly when financial safety nets are absent. “Starting again comes with its own psychological weight,” she adds.
Ifill sees the same pattern among her patients: “Individuals who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s significantly worse in this time since the storm.”
In addition to the psychological damage, physical issues continue. The hurricane wiped out vital water infrastructure, slowing the complete restoration of clean water. Monetary relief, while crucial, do not address all of the deep-seated infrastructure problems exposed by the storm.
Grassroots Networks as a Vital Pillar
Critically is that rebuilding alone cannot heal the deep sorrow caused by the loss of loved ones. Research consistently finds that survivors frequently report social networks to be more immediate than official aid.
“Official action is crucial,” Smith acknowledges. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is inefficient, communities keep each other whole.”
Ifill notes the value of mutual support in coping with disaster. She says she was “moved by the positive attitude” among resilient populations. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they share laughter about the storm.”
She further praises steps to support psychological self-care after the disaster but advises about the negative effects of consuming endless negative news. “The guidance included reducing screen time, trusting verified sources, and using messaging apps to connect with family.”
A Growing Regional Priority
In recent years, psychosocial care has become a higher priority from international agencies due to the intensifying climate emergency. The growing regularity of extreme weather has catalyzed the development of tools for mental health response.
International bodies have developed practical guides to assist aid personnel in offering psychosocial support in the aftermath of traumatic events. These efforts aim to strengthen individual and social resilience by educating caregivers, promoting openness, and facilitating the use of mental health services.
Economic support are also highlighted as key for preserving mental health. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a previous flood, highlights the frustration that arises when official support is not delivered. “Officials visited... But even now, we never got any payment,” he says.
An Appeal for Holistic Recovery
Analysts note that the Caribbean region contributes a minuscule fraction of global emissions yet suffers disproportionate climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed critical to mitigate enduring trauma.
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