When the devastating cyclone struck Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it left behind a landscape of catastrophic damage. Dwellings, hospitals, and vital systems were severely compromised, causing the tragic loss of 32 lives and affecting an staggering 1.5 million. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the tangible destruction would be paired with profound and persistent emotional wounds.
“Commonplace occurrences can activate them,” Ifill explains. “An individual described a cart we often push through the passageways, whose noise sounded like cracking branches and the fierce gales. She has become averse to hearing that particular noise.”
Over six weeks after the hurricane, which also affected parts of Cuba, recollections of the frightening storm continue to trouble some staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of rain can now prompt trauma responses among survivors.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Billions in Damage
This disaster led to a significant recovery package valued at up to $6.7bn over three years and an additional payment of millions from a groundbreaking risk financing tool. But, authorities note this financial relief fails to account for the unseen cost: extensive emotional suffering—especially among those who had been recovering from another major storm in 2024.
While the primary focus targets physical reconstruction, academic work over the last several years demonstrate that the probability of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) grows substantially after hurricanes and displacement. Researchers are now calling for the incorporation of mental health support into climate-disaster policy across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Loss and Psychological Well-being
Scholars stress how extended displacement, loss of livelihoods, and insufficient support worsen psychological vulnerabilities. A recent regional study warned of a significant risk of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Further research found similar fear, anxiety, and distress among people who survived tropical cyclones.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has analyzed disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors typically experience a trio of psychological hurdles: severe stress and mood disorders.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in disaster studies, concurs. She observes that while humans are generally resilient, as the planet continues to warm, emotional fallout is becoming an major issue—even though extensive research is still lacking.
These experts found that female survivors showed greater psychological suffering than men. “This suggests women are more susceptible than males when disaster strikes,” Smith explains.
The Long Road to Healing
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some initial improvement in well-being may occur within a year, the lasting effects are still unclear. The likelihood to which survivors bounce back depends heavily on the circumstances of their suffering and the support available.
The experts see that the destruction of property and livelihoods can intensify the psychological burden to recover. Smith describes housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” especially when insurance or savings are lacking. “Rebuilding comes with its own emotional tax,” she says.
Ifill witnesses the identical trend among her those seeking help: “Individuals who had previous psychological issues have found it’s significantly worse in this time since the storm.”
In addition to the mental toll, tangible problems persist. The hurricane wiped out critical water infrastructure, delaying the full return of clean water. Financial aid, while necessary, cannot resolve the deep-seated infrastructure problems revealed by the storm.
Grassroots Networks as a Essential Lifeline
A key finding is that material recovery cannot heal the psychological injuries caused by permanent disabilities. Research indicates that survivors commonly experience social networks to be more responsive than official aid.
“State support is essential,” Smith acknowledges. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is inefficient, communities provide mutual aid.”
Ifill similarly praises the power of social bonds in navigating hardship. She says she was “struck by the positive attitude” among tight-knit groups. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they share laughter about the storm.”
She further commends efforts to encourage mental health awareness after the disaster but warns about the harms of doomscrolling. “I recommended reducing screen time, sticking to reliable news, and using messaging apps to connect with family.”
An Increasing Regional Priority
Over the past decade, psychological support has garnered greater attention from world bodies due to the intensifying planetary changes. The increasing frequency of extreme weather has catalyzed the development of tools for psychological first aid.
Regional institutions have released comprehensive manuals to assist aid personnel in delivering psychological care in the aftermath of traumatic events. These efforts aim to strengthen community and personal strength by educating caregivers, reducing shame, and promoting the use of mental health services.
Monetary aid are also underlined as fundamental for preserving psychological recovery. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a similar event, highlights the despair that arises when official support is not delivered. “They came... But even now, we never got any payment,” he states.
A Call for Holistic Healing
Experts note that the Caribbean region accounts for a minuscule fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet suffers disastrous climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed vital to avoid enduring trauma.
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