When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on the 28th of October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it left behind a landscape of utter destruction. Residences, medical facilities, and key utilities were severely compromised, causing 32 fatalities and affecting 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 activate them,” Ifill states. “An individual mentioned a wheeled bin we often move through the corridors, whose sound evoked memories of splintering trees and the roaring storm. She has become averse to experiencing that particular noise.”
Over six weeks after the catastrophe, which also struck eastern Cuba, recollections of the frightening storm continue to affect many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of a downpour can now prompt stress reactions among survivors.
The Psychological Price Beyond Economic Reconstruction
The catastrophic event led to a significant aid package totaling up to $6.7bn over three years and an further payment of millions from a pioneering risk financing tool. But, experts warn this financial relief does not address the psychological cost: widespread trauma—especially among those who had been recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.
While the lion's share of effort is directed toward restoring buildings, research over the past three years show that the likelihood of severe anxiety disorders rises significantly after climate disasters and displacement. Experts are now advocating for the integration of psychological care into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Loss and Emotional Stability
Scholars emphasize how extended displacement, vanishing incomes, and insufficient support worsen psychological vulnerabilities. A scholarly article identified a heightened danger of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Further research documented comparable anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people affected by tropical cyclones.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a academic who has analyzed disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors often encounter three primary mental health challenges: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in disaster studies, echoes this view. She notes that while individuals can be strong, as the climate crisis worsens, psychological well-being is becoming an increasingly significant issue—although comprehensive data is still lacking.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that women affected reported greater psychological suffering than men. “So it’s quite possible women are at greater emotional risk than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.
The Long Road to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some short-term recovery in mental health may occur within a year of the event, the lasting effects can be unpredictable. The extent to which survivors bounce back hinges on the specific triggers and the resources accessible.
The experts observe that the loss of homes and possessions can magnify the mental struggle to recover. Smith describes housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” particularly when people have no economic cushion. “Rebuilding comes with its own mental burden,” she emphasizes.
Ifill observes the parallel situation among her clients: “People who had pre-existing mental health challenges have reported it’s significantly worse in this aftermath.”
Apart from the psychological damage, physical issues persist. The hurricane severely damaged vital water infrastructure, delaying the full return of water services. Financial aid, while helpful, do not address all of the chronic vulnerabilities exposed by the storm.
Community Cohesion as a Vital Foundation
Perhaps most importantly is that material recovery fails to mend the psychological injuries caused by the loss of loved ones. Research shows that survivors often find community support to be more responsive than official aid.
“Official action is crucial,” Smith states. “When it is lacking, or when it is delayed, communities support one another.”
Ifill also highlights the power of mutual support in coping with disaster. She recalls being “impressed by the positive attitude” among tight-knit groups. “Everything is destroyed, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they find lightness about the storm.”
She further acknowledges initiatives to support mental health awareness after the disaster but cautions about the dangers of doomscrolling. “I recommended reducing screen time, following official updates, and turning to apps to maintain social support.”
A Growing Global Recognition
Over the past decade, 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.
Regional institutions have released detailed resources to train aid personnel in delivering emotional aid in the aftermath of traumatic events. These initiatives aim to strengthen community and personal strength by educating caregivers, combating stigma, and promoting the access to psychological care.
Financial aid are also identified as crucial for preserving mental health. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a past disaster, emphasizes the frustration that arises when official support fails to materialize. “Assessments were made... But up to this day, we never got the promised help,” he says.
A Call for Holistic Healing
Analysts observe that the Caribbean region accounts for a very small fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed vital to avoid chronic psychological damage.
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