When the powerful Category 5 storm struck Jamaica on 28 October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it resulted in a picture of catastrophic damage. Residences, medical facilities, and vital systems were severely compromised, resulting in 32 fatalities and affecting an staggering 1.5 million individuals. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the physical wreckage would be paired with profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Everyday sounds can activate them,” Ifill notes. “An individual mentioned a cart we often roll through the passageways, whose noise reminded her of splintering trees and the roaring storm. She now refuses to experiencing that particular noise.”
A month and a half after the storm, which also affected parts of Cuba, recollections of the horrific event continue to trouble many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of rain can now cause panic among survivors.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Financial Losses
This disaster led to a substantial financial package valued at up to $6.7bn over three years and an further disbursement of $150 million from a groundbreaking disaster insurance instrument. However, authorities note this economic assistance does not address the psychological cost: widespread trauma—particularly among those still recovering from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
While the primary focus is directed toward physical reconstruction, research over the recent years show that the likelihood of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rises significantly after hurricanes and displacement. Experts are now urging the integration of psychological care into climate-disaster policy across the region.
Compounded Vulnerabilities: Displacement and Emotional Stability
Academics stress how prolonged homelessness, loss of livelihoods, and insufficient support amplify psychological vulnerabilities. A scholarly article flagged a significant risk of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after extreme weather. Further research found comparable fear, anxiety, and distress among people who survived other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has analyzed disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors could face several key mental health challenges: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in disaster studies, agrees. She points out that while people are often tough, as the frequency of disasters increases, emotional fallout is becoming an ever more critical issue—despite the fact that detailed prevalence surveys is often insufficient.
The researchers found that women showed higher mental distress than men. “It indicates that women are more susceptible than males during these events,” Smith says.
The Uncertain Path to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some short-term recovery in psychological state may occur within a year, the ultimate prognosis can be unpredictable. The degree to which survivors bounce back is largely determined by the nature of the trauma and the support available.
The experts note that the loss of homes and possessions can magnify the emotional challenge to rebuild. Smith describes housing loss “a major source of stress,” especially when people have no economic cushion. “Reconstruction comes with its own mental burden,” she says.
Ifill sees the same pattern among her those seeking help: “Individuals who had previous psychological issues have found it’s much more severe in this time since the storm.”
Apart from the mental toll, tangible challenges continue. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, slowing the reliable supply of potable water. Financial aid, while necessary, cannot resolve the deep-seated infrastructure problems laid bare by the storm.
Grassroots Support as a Critical Foundation
Perhaps most importantly is that material recovery fails to mend the emotional wounds caused by life-altering injuries. Studies consistently finds that survivors often find help from neighbors to be more immediate than government assistance.
“State support is important,” Smith acknowledges. “When it is lacking, or when it is slow, neighbors keep each other whole.”
Ifill also highlights the value of social bonds in overcoming challenges. She notes she was “impressed by the positive attitude” among strong communities. “Everything is destroyed, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they make jokes about the storm.”
Ifill also commends efforts to encourage mental health awareness after the disaster but cautions about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “I recommended limiting social media, sticking to reliable news, and using messaging apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Increasing Regional Priority
In recent years, psychosocial care has garnered greater attention from global organizations due to the intensifying climate crisis. The growing regularity of climate disasters has led to the development of guidelines for trauma support.
Regional institutions have published comprehensive manuals to train aid personnel in delivering emotional aid in the wake of traumatic events. These initiatives aim to foster individual and social resilience by educating caregivers, promoting openness, and encouraging the use of mental health services.
Monetary support are also identified as crucial for safeguarding psychological recovery. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost everything in a similar event, highlights the despair that arises when expected aid is not delivered. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we did not receive compensation,” he says.
A Plea for Comprehensive Rebuilding
Experts observe that the Caribbean region contributes a minuscule fraction of planetary pollution yet endures disproportionate climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed vital to mitigate enduring trauma.
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