When the devastating cyclone ravaged Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it caused a landscape of catastrophic damage. Homes, medical facilities, and vital systems were severely compromised, resulting in 32 deaths and impacting an approximate 1.5 million. For mental health expert Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the material damage would be shadowed by profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Simple things can provoke them,” Ifill explains. “One woman described a trolley we often move through the corridors, whose clatter reminded her of breaking wood and the roaring storm. She now refuses to experiencing that sound.”
Over six weeks after the hurricane, which also impacted parts of 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 cause trauma responses among individuals who endured it.
The Hidden Toll Beyond Economic Reconstruction
The catastrophic event triggered a massive aid package valued at $6.7 billion over three years and an additional disbursement of millions from a innovative risk financing tool. But, authorities note this monetary aid does not address the invisible cost: extensive emotional suffering—particularly among those still recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.
While the lion's share of effort is directed toward rebuilding infrastructure, studies over the recent years show that the probability of severe anxiety disorders rises substantially after climate disasters and forced relocation. Experts are now calling for the inclusion of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Insecurity and Mental Health
Scholars emphasize how long-term dislocation, vanishing incomes, and poor access to care amplify emotional distress. A scholarly article identified a heightened danger of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Further research recorded similar anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people affected by other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has analyzed disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors often encounter a trio of psychological hurdles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in disaster studies, concurs. She observes that while individuals can be strong, as the climate crisis worsens, emotional fallout is becoming an ever more critical issue—despite the fact that extensive research is still lacking.
These experts found that women affected showed higher mental distress than men. “It indicates that women are more susceptible than males during these events,” Smith comments.
The Difficult Journey to Healing
Dr. Heanoy says that while some early progress in well-being can happen within a year of the event, the ultimate prognosis can be unpredictable. The likelihood to which survivors bounce back is largely determined by the specific triggers and the resources accessible.
The experts note that the being rendered homeless and resources can intensify the psychological burden to recover. Smith labels housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” particularly when financial safety nets are absent. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she adds.
Ifill sees the same pattern among her those seeking help: “Those who had previous psychological issues have found it’s much more severe in this aftermath.”
Beyond the psychological damage, tangible challenges persist. The hurricane wiped out vital water infrastructure, slowing the reliable supply of water services. Insurance payouts, while helpful, do not address all of the deep-seated infrastructure problems laid bare by the storm.
Community Networks as a Critical Lifeline
Critically is that material recovery cannot heal the psychological injuries caused by the loss of loved ones. Research consistently finds that survivors commonly experience community support to be more responsive than bureaucratic help.
“State support is important,” Smith says. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is slow, local people keep each other whole.”
Ifill also highlights the strength of social bonds in coping with disaster. She notes she was “impressed by the sense of humour” among tight-knit groups. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they make jokes about the storm.”
Ifill also praises initiatives to encourage mental health awareness after the disaster but advises about the harms of doomscrolling. “I recommended limiting social media, trusting verified sources, and turning to apps to connect with family.”
A Growing Global Recognition
In recent years, psychosocial care has received more focus from international agencies due to the worsening planetary changes. The growing regularity of extreme weather has led to the development of frameworks for psychological first aid.
Major health organizations have developed comprehensive manuals to train responders in delivering psychosocial support in the wake of traumatic events. These efforts aim to strengthen community and personal strength by building capacity, reducing shame, and facilitating the use of mental health services.
Monetary support are also underlined as fundamental for protecting mental health. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a similar event, highlights the frustration that arises when promised compensation never arrives. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we were not granted any payment,” he says.
An Appeal for Comprehensive Rebuilding
Analysts argue that the Caribbean region contributes a minuscule fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed essential to avoid enduring trauma.
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