When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on the 28th of October with winds of 185mph, it left behind a picture of utter destruction. Dwellings, hospitals, and key utilities were severely compromised, leading to the tragic loss of 32 lives and affecting an estimated 1.5 million people. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the tangible destruction would be accompanied by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Everyday occurrences can trigger them,” Ifill explains. “An individual mentioned a wheeled bin we often push through the corridors, whose sound sounded like splintering trees and the fierce gales. She no longer wants to listening to that sound.”
Weeks after the hurricane, which also affected eastern Cuba, recollections of the frightening storm continue to haunt many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of a downpour can now cause trauma responses among individuals who endured it.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Billions in Damage
The catastrophic event led to a massive financial package worth up to $6.7 billion over a three-year period and an extra disbursement of millions from a innovative disaster insurance instrument. However, experts warn this economic assistance cannot cover the psychological cost: pervasive mental health crises—particularly among those previously affected from another major storm in 2024.
While the primary focus targets restoring buildings, academic work over the recent years show that the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) grows substantially after major storms and forced relocation. Experts are now calling for the integration of psychosocial services into national recovery strategies across the region.
Increased Risks: Displacement and Emotional Stability
Academics stress how prolonged homelessness, loss of livelihoods, and insufficient support amplify psychological vulnerabilities. A recent regional study identified a heightened danger of severe mental health issues after climate-related events. Another study documented comparable anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people displaced by other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has examined disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors could face three primary emotional obstacles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in disaster studies, echoes this view. She points out that while individuals can be strong, as the frequency of disasters increases, mental health is becoming an ever more critical issue—even though detailed prevalence surveys is often insufficient.
The researchers found that women showed greater psychological suffering than male counterparts. “So it’s quite possible women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith says.
The Uncertain Path to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy states that while some early progress in mental health is often seen within a year, long-term outcomes remain uncertain. The extent to which survivors bounce back depends heavily on the specific triggers and the resources accessible.
The experts observe that the being rendered homeless and resources can magnify the psychological burden to rebuild. Smith calls housing loss “a major source of stress,” notably when financial safety nets are absent. “Rebuilding comes with its own emotional tax,” she says.
Ifill observes the same pattern among her clients: “Individuals who had pre-existing mental health challenges have reported it’s much more severe in this time since the storm.”
Beyond the emotional toll, tangible issues continue. The hurricane severely damaged key water infrastructure, hampering the full return of water services. Monetary relief, while crucial, cannot resolve the deep-seated infrastructure problems revealed by the storm.
Community Support as a Essential Lifeline
Critically is that physical reconstruction by itself cannot heal the psychological injuries caused by life-altering injuries. Research indicates that survivors commonly experience social networks to be more responsive than official aid.
“The government’s role is crucial,” Smith acknowledges. “When it is lacking, or when it is delayed, neighbors keep each other whole.”
Ifill similarly praises the power of social bonds in navigating hardship. She says she was “moved by the positive attitude” among tight-knit groups. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they share laughter about the storm.”
Ifill also praises efforts to encourage psychological self-care after the disaster but cautions about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “I recommended limiting social media, sticking to reliable news, and leveraging technology to connect with family.”
An Increasing Global Recognition
In recent years, psychosocial care has garnered greater attention from international agencies due to the worsening planetary changes. The increasing frequency of hurricanes has catalyzed the development of guidelines for mental health response.
Major health organizations have released practical guides to train responders in delivering psychosocial support in the aftermath of disasters. These efforts aim to build individual and social resilience by training professionals, combating stigma, and promoting the seeking of professional help.
Monetary resources are also highlighted as key for protecting emotional well-being. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a past disaster, emphasizes the hopelessness that arises when official support fails to materialize. “They came... But up to this day, we were not granted any payment,” he states.
An Appeal for Integrated Healing
Experts observe that the Caribbean region contributes a very small fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet endures disproportionate climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed critical to avoid chronic psychological damage.
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