When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on the 28th of October with winds of 185mph, it left behind a landscape of widespread ruin. Dwellings, hospitals, and vital systems were leveled, resulting in 32 deaths and affecting an estimated 1.5 million individuals. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the tangible destruction would be shadowed by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Simple sounds can trigger them,” Ifill explains. “One woman spoke of a cart we often roll through the halls, whose clatter reminded her of breaking wood and the fierce gales. She no longer wants to experiencing that particular noise.”
Weeks after the storm, 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 trauma responses among individuals who endured it.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Financial Losses
This disaster triggered a significant recovery package worth up to billions of dollars over several years and an additional payment of millions from a innovative risk financing tool. But, experts warn this economic assistance cannot cover the invisible cost: widespread trauma—notably among those still recovering from another major storm in 2024.
While the primary focus is directed toward physical reconstruction, academic work over the past three years demonstrate that the probability of PTSD grows markedly after hurricanes and losing one's home. Experts are now calling for the integration of psychological care into national recovery strategies across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Displacement and Psychological Well-being
Academics highlight how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and inadequate services amplify mental health risks. A scholarly article identified a clear threat of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Further research recorded comparable psychological turmoil among people affected by other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a academic who has studied disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors could face three primary mental health challenges: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in disaster studies, echoes this view. She notes that while people are often tough, as the frequency of disasters increases, psychological well-being is becoming an ever more critical issue—despite the fact that comprehensive data is still lacking.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that female survivors experienced higher mental distress than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more susceptible than males during these events,” Smith says.
The Difficult Journey to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some early progress in well-being can happen within a year, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The degree to which survivors heal is largely determined by the nature of the trauma and the resources accessible.
The experts observe that the loss of homes and possessions can magnify the emotional challenge to start over. Smith calls housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” particularly when people have no economic cushion. “Rebuilding comes with its own psychological weight,” she adds.
Ifill sees the parallel situation among her clients: “Individuals who had pre-existing mental health challenges have found it’s much more severe in this aftermath.”
In addition to the psychological damage, physical challenges remain. The hurricane destroyed key water infrastructure, slowing the complete restoration of clean water. Insurance payouts, while helpful, are insufficient to fix the deep-seated infrastructure problems laid bare by the storm.
Social Support as a Essential Lifeline
Perhaps most importantly is that rebuilding alone fails to mend the deep sorrow caused by life-altering injuries. Research indicates that survivors frequently report social networks to be more effective than bureaucratic help.
“State support is important,” Smith says. “In its absence, or when it is delayed, neighbors provide mutual aid.”
Ifill also highlights the value of community solidarity in coping with disaster. She says she was “impressed by the positive attitude” among strong communities. “Everything is destroyed, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they find lightness about the storm.”
Additionally, she commends steps to support psychological self-care after the disaster but advises about the dangers of constant exposure to traumatic media. “The guidance included curating news intake, trusting verified sources, and turning to apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Expanding Global Recognition
In recent years, psychological support has received more focus from global organizations due to the worsening climate emergency. The increasing frequency of extreme weather has led to the development of frameworks for mental health response.
Regional institutions have published detailed resources to assist responders in providing psychological care in the aftermath of catastrophes. These initiatives aim to build psychological fortitude by building capacity, combating stigma, and promoting the seeking of professional help.
Economic aid are also identified as fundamental for protecting psychological recovery. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a previous flood, highlights the despair that arises when official support fails to materialize. “Assessments were made... But even now, we did not receive compensation,” he recounts.
An Appeal for Integrated Healing
Leaders note that the Caribbean region contributes a minuscule fraction of global emissions yet bears disastrous climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed vital to prevent enduring trauma.
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