When the devastating cyclone made landfall on Jamaica on 28 October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it resulted in a landscape of catastrophic damage. Dwellings, hospitals, and critical infrastructure were leveled, leading to 32 fatalities and affecting an estimated 1.5 million people. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was instantly apparent that the material damage would be shadowed by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Commonplace things can provoke them,” Ifill notes. “A patient described a trolley we often push through the corridors, whose clatter sounded like cracking branches and the howling wind. She has become averse to experiencing that particular noise.”
Weeks after the hurricane, which also affected parts of Cuba, recollections of the frightening storm continue to trouble many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of rain can now cause trauma responses among those who lived through it.
The Unseen Cost Amidst Economic Reconstruction
This disaster resulted in a substantial financial package valued at billions of dollars over several years and an additional disbursement of $150m from a innovative disaster insurance instrument. But, experts warn this monetary aid fails to account for the invisible cost: extensive emotional suffering—particularly among those who had been recovering from another major storm in 2024.
While the lion's share of effort targets restoring buildings, academic work over the past three years show that the likelihood of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) grows markedly after major storms and displacement. Researchers are now calling for the inclusion of psychosocial services into climate-disaster policy across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Displacement and Emotional Stability
Scholars emphasize how extended displacement, destroyed jobs, and insufficient support worsen mental health risks. A recent regional study warned of a clear threat of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after extreme weather. Further research recorded parallel anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people affected by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has studied disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors could face three primary mental health challenges: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in geography and disaster risk management, echoes this view. She observes that while individuals can be strong, as the planet continues to warm, emotional fallout is becoming an major issue—even though comprehensive data is often insufficient.
The researchers found that women affected showed higher mental distress than men. “This suggests women are more psychologically vulnerable than males when disaster strikes,” Smith says.
The Uncertain Path to Healing
Dr. Heanoy says that while some short-term recovery in psychological state is often seen within a year, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The extent to which survivors recover is largely determined by the circumstances of their suffering and the support available.
The experts see that the destruction of property and livelihoods can heighten the emotional challenge to rebuild. Smith labels housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” especially when insurance or savings are lacking. “Rebuilding comes with its own mental burden,” she says.
Ifill witnesses the same pattern among her those seeking help: “Those who had previous psychological issues have noticed it’s significantly worse in this aftermath.”
In addition to the psychological impact, practical challenges remain. The hurricane destroyed key water infrastructure, delaying the reliable supply of potable water. Insurance payouts, while helpful, do not address all of the chronic vulnerabilities laid bare by the storm.
Community Support as a Essential Pillar
A key finding is that material recovery fails to mend the psychological injuries caused by life-altering injuries. Studies shows that survivors frequently report social networks to be more responsive than official aid.
“State support is essential,” Smith says. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is delayed, neighbors keep each other whole.”
Ifill also highlights the value of social bonds in coping with disaster. She recalls being “impressed by the resilient spirit” among strong communities. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they make jokes about the storm.”
She further commends initiatives to support emotional well-being after the disaster but advises about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “I recommended reducing screen time, sticking to reliable news, and turning to apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Increasing International Focus
Recently, psychosocial care has become a higher priority from international agencies due to the intensifying climate emergency. The increasing frequency of hurricanes has catalyzed the development of guidelines for trauma support.
Regional institutions have released detailed resources to help field workers in offering psychological care in the wake of catastrophes. These projects aim to strengthen psychological fortitude by educating caregivers, combating stigma, and promoting the use of mental health services.
Financial support are also highlighted as fundamental for safeguarding emotional well-being. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a past disaster, highlights the frustration that arises when promised compensation fails to materialize. “Officials visited... But to this date, we did not receive compensation,” he says.
A Plea for Comprehensive Healing
Leaders argue that the Caribbean region contributes a minuscule fraction of planetary pollution yet suffers disastrous climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed vital to avoid enduring trauma.
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