When the devastating cyclone made landfall on Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it resulted in a scene of utter destruction. Homes, healthcare centers, and vital systems were leveled, resulting in the tragic loss of 32 lives and impacting an estimated 1.5 million people. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was instantly apparent that the physical wreckage would be accompanied by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Commonplace things can trigger them,” Ifill states. “One woman spoke of a wheeled bin we often push through the halls, whose clatter sounded like splintering trees and the roaring storm. She no longer wants to listening to that auditory reminder.”
Over six weeks after the hurricane, which also affected eastern Cuba, memories 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 elicit panic among survivors.
The Hidden Toll Amidst Economic Reconstruction
The catastrophic event resulted in a massive recovery package valued at billions of dollars over three years and an additional payment of millions from a pioneering risk financing tool. But, experts warn this financial relief does not address the unseen cost: widespread trauma—particularly among those still recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.
Although the primary focus is directed toward restoring buildings, studies over the last several years demonstrate that the risk of PTSD grows markedly after climate disasters and displacement. Mental health professionals are now calling for the inclusion of psychological care into national recovery strategies across the region.
Increased Risks: Displacement and Mental Health
Academics emphasize how prolonged homelessness, destroyed jobs, and inadequate services exacerbate psychological vulnerabilities. A 2023 Caribbean-focused paper identified a significant risk of severe mental health issues after natural disasters. Another study found similar anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people who survived other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a academic who has examined disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors typically experience several key psychological hurdles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a scholar in geography and disaster risk management, echoes this view. She notes that while people are often tough, as the planet continues to warm, mental health is becoming an ever more critical issue—even though comprehensive data is not widely available.
These experts found that women affected showed greater psychological suffering than men. “It indicates that women are more psychologically vulnerable than males when disaster strikes,” Smith says.
The Uncertain Path to Healing
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some initial improvement in psychological state is often seen within a year, the ultimate prognosis remain uncertain. The extent to which survivors heal is largely determined by the nature of the trauma and the care they receive.
The experts see that the loss of homes and resources can magnify the emotional challenge to start over. Smith calls housing loss “a major source of stress,” particularly when people have no economic cushion. “Reconstruction comes with its own emotional tax,” she adds.
Ifill witnesses the parallel situation among her clients: “Those who had pre-existing mental health challenges have found it’s significantly worse in this aftermath.”
Apart from the psychological impact, practical issues continue. The hurricane severely damaged vital water infrastructure, slowing the complete restoration of potable water. Insurance payouts, while crucial, are insufficient to fix the deep-seated infrastructure problems laid bare by the storm.
Grassroots Support as a Critical Lifeline
Perhaps most importantly is that material recovery fails to mend the deep sorrow caused by the loss of loved ones. Research shows that survivors frequently report help from neighbors to be more responsive than bureaucratic help.
“Official action is important,” Smith states. “In its absence, or when it is slow, communities keep each other whole.”
Ifill notes the power of community solidarity in coping with disaster. She notes she was “moved by the resilient spirit” among tight-knit groups. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they find lightness about the storm.”
She further acknowledges steps to promote psychological self-care after the disaster but warns about the dangers of doomscrolling. “The guidance included curating news intake, sticking to reliable news, and leveraging technology to connect with family.”
A Growing Global Recognition
Over the past decade, psychosocial care has received more focus from world bodies due to the intensifying climate emergency. The rising occurrence of hurricanes has led to the development of tools for mental health response.
Regional institutions have developed practical guides to assist field workers in delivering emotional aid in the aftermath of disasters. These projects aim to strengthen psychological fortitude by educating caregivers, reducing shame, and encouraging the use of mental health services.
Economic aid are also identified as key for protecting psychological recovery. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a similar event, stresses the hopelessness that arises when promised compensation never arrives. “They came... But to this date, we were not granted compensation,” he recounts.
An Appeal for Comprehensive Rebuilding
Experts argue that the Caribbean region contributes a tiny fraction of global emissions yet endures extreme climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed vital to mitigate prolonged suffering.
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