When the powerful Category 5 storm struck Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it caused a landscape of utter destruction. Dwellings, medical facilities, and key utilities were severely compromised, leading to 32 fatalities and impacting an estimated 1.5 million people. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the tangible destruction would be accompanied by profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Everyday things can activate them,” Ifill states. “One woman described a cart we often move through the halls, whose clatter evoked memories of cracking branches and the fierce gales. She no longer wants to experiencing that particular noise.”
Over six weeks after the catastrophe, which also struck eastern Cuba, flashbacks of the terrifying winds continue to trouble a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of a downpour can now cause panic among those who lived through it.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Financial Losses
The catastrophic event triggered a substantial aid package totaling billions of dollars over a three-year period and an additional payment of $150 million from a pioneering disaster insurance instrument. However, experts warn this monetary aid does not address the unseen cost: widespread trauma—particularly among those still recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.
Whereas most attention targets rebuilding infrastructure, studies over the past three years demonstrate that the risk of severe anxiety disorders rises substantially after major storms and forced relocation. Experts are now urging the inclusion of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across Caribbean nations.
Compounded Vulnerabilities: Insecurity and Mental Health
Researchers highlight how long-term dislocation, vanishing incomes, and insufficient support worsen emotional distress. A scholarly article flagged a clear threat of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after extreme weather. Further research documented comparable psychological turmoil among people displaced by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has analyzed disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors could face three primary psychological hurdles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in risk reduction, echoes this view. She notes that while people are often tough, as the frequency of disasters increases, mental health is becoming an increasingly significant issue—although comprehensive data is not widely available.
These experts found that female survivors showed more severe emotional impact than men. “It indicates that women are more psychologically vulnerable than males when disaster strikes,” Smith says.
The Long Road to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy states that while some initial improvement in psychological state is often seen within a year of the event, the ultimate prognosis are still unclear. The extent to which survivors heal depends heavily on the specific triggers and the care they receive.
The experts observe that the loss of homes and resources can intensify the mental struggle to recover. Smith labels housing loss “a major source of stress,” particularly when financial safety nets are absent. “Starting again comes with its own emotional tax,” she emphasizes.
Ifill sees the same pattern among her those seeking help: “Those who had previous psychological issues have noticed it’s significantly worse in this time since the storm.”
Apart from the emotional damage, tangible problems continue. The hurricane severely damaged key water infrastructure, hampering the full return of water services. Insurance payouts, while necessary, cannot resolve the systemic weaknesses revealed by the storm.
Community Support as a Essential Lifeline
Perhaps most importantly is that material recovery fails to mend the psychological injuries caused by the loss of loved ones. Research indicates that survivors frequently report help from neighbors to be more responsive than government assistance.
“Official action is important,” Smith states. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is delayed, communities support one another.”
Ifill notes the value of community solidarity in navigating hardship. She says she was “impressed by the sense of humour” among resilient populations. “Everything is destroyed, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they share laughter about the storm.”
Ifill also commends steps to promote emotional well-being after the disaster but cautions about the negative effects of constant exposure to traumatic media. “I recommended reducing screen time, following official updates, and leveraging technology to stay in touch with loved ones.”
A Growing Global Recognition
Over the past decade, psychological support has become a higher priority from international agencies due to the worsening climate crisis. The growing regularity of hurricanes has catalyzed the development of guidelines for trauma support.
Regional institutions have published detailed resources to train field workers in delivering emotional aid in the aftermath of disasters. These efforts aim to build community and personal strength by educating caregivers, reducing shame, and facilitating the access to psychological care.
Economic support are also highlighted as crucial for protecting mental health. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a past disaster, highlights the hopelessness that arises when official support is not delivered. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we never got the promised help,” he says.
A Plea for Holistic Healing
Leaders note that the Caribbean region contributes a minuscule fraction of planetary pollution yet bears disproportionate climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed critical to prevent enduring trauma.
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