When the devastating cyclone made landfall on Jamaica on 28 October with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it resulted in a landscape of catastrophic damage. Dwellings, hospitals, and key utilities were leveled, causing the tragic loss of 32 lives and disrupting the lives of an staggering 1.5 million people. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the tangible destruction would be paired with profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Simple things can trigger them,” Ifill states. “One woman described a wheeled bin we often roll through the halls, whose clatter sounded like breaking wood and the fierce gales. She now refuses to listening to that auditory reminder.”
Over six weeks after the storm, which also impacted parts of Cuba, memories of the horrific event continue to affect a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of rain can now prompt stress reactions among individuals who endured it.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Billions in Damage
This disaster led to a massive recovery package totaling $6.7 billion over three years and an additional payout of millions from a groundbreaking catastrophe bond. Yet, experts warn this monetary aid does not address the invisible cost: widespread trauma—notably among those previously affected from another major storm in 2024.
While the lion's share of effort is directed toward rebuilding infrastructure, academic work over the past three years indicate that the likelihood of PTSD grows significantly after major storms and forced relocation. Researchers are now advocating for the integration of mental health support into disaster response plans across the region.
Increased Risks: Insecurity and Psychological Well-being
Academics highlight how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and inadequate services amplify psychological vulnerabilities. A scholarly article flagged a heightened danger of severe mental health issues after natural disasters. Further research found parallel psychological turmoil among people affected by other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a academic who has examined disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors often encounter three primary psychological hurdles: severe stress and mood disorders.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in risk reduction, echoes this view. She points out that while people are often tough, as the climate crisis worsens, emotional fallout is becoming an major issue—even though comprehensive data is not widely available.
The researchers found that women reported greater psychological suffering than men. “It indicates that women are more susceptible than males in such catastrophes,” Smith says.
The Difficult Journey to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy states that while some early progress in well-being may occur within a year of the event, the lasting effects can be unpredictable. The degree to which survivors bounce back is largely determined by the circumstances of their suffering and the resources accessible.
The experts see that the loss of homes and resources can intensify the mental struggle to recover. Smith labels housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” particularly when insurance or savings are lacking. “Starting again comes with its own emotional tax,” she adds.
Ifill sees the parallel situation among her patients: “Individuals who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s far more intense in this time since the storm.”
Beyond the psychological impact, physical challenges continue. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, delaying the reliable supply of potable water. Insurance payouts, while necessary, do not address all of the deep-seated infrastructure problems revealed by the storm.
Grassroots Support as a Vital Lifeline
A key finding is that rebuilding alone does not address the emotional wounds caused by life-altering injuries. Expert analysis shows that survivors commonly experience social networks to be more effective than official aid.
“Official action is essential,” Smith states. “In its absence, or when it is slow, communities support one another.”
Ifill also highlights the power of social bonds in overcoming challenges. She notes she was “impressed by the positive attitude” among strong communities. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they share laughter about the storm.”
She further acknowledges initiatives to encourage mental health awareness after the disaster but cautions about the negative effects of consuming endless negative news. “I recommended curating news intake, sticking to reliable news, and using messaging apps to connect with family.”
An Increasing Regional Priority
In recent years, psychosocial care has received more focus from global organizations due to the worsening climate emergency. The increasing frequency of extreme weather has catalyzed the development of guidelines for psychological first aid.
Regional institutions have released comprehensive manuals to help aid personnel in offering psychological care in the wake of traumatic events. These efforts aim to foster individual and social resilience by building capacity, promoting openness, and promoting the use of mental health services.
Monetary support are also underlined as crucial for protecting mental health. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a similar event, emphasizes the hopelessness that arises when expected aid is not delivered. “They came... But up to this day, we never got any payment,” he recounts.
An Appeal for Comprehensive Healing
Leaders argue that the Caribbean region accounts for a minuscule fraction of global emissions yet endures disproportionate climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed vital to mitigate enduring trauma.
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