When the devastating cyclone ravaged Jamaica on the 28th of October with winds of 185mph, it caused a scene of widespread ruin. Dwellings, healthcare centers, and vital systems were leveled, resulting in 32 fatalities and disrupting the lives of an approximate 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 persistent emotional wounds.
“Commonplace occurrences can activate them,” Ifill states. “A patient mentioned a cart we often roll through the corridors, whose sound reminded her of splintering trees and the fierce gales. She no longer wants to listening to that sound.”
Weeks after the catastrophe, which also affected eastern Cuba, memories of the horrific event continue to affect many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of a downpour can now cause trauma responses among survivors.
The Unseen Cost Beyond Financial Losses
This disaster led to a substantial aid package valued at billions of dollars over a three-year period and an further disbursement of $150m from a pioneering risk financing tool. However, authorities note this economic assistance does not address the unseen cost: extensive emotional suffering—notably among those who had been recovering from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
Whereas the primary focus targets restoring buildings, academic work over the last several years demonstrate that the likelihood of PTSD rises substantially after hurricanes and losing one's home. Experts are now calling for the incorporation of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Loss and Psychological Well-being
Researchers stress how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and insufficient support amplify emotional distress. A recent regional study identified a heightened danger of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after extreme weather. Further research found parallel fear, anxiety, and distress among people who survived other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has analyzed disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors typically experience three primary psychological hurdles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a scholar in disaster studies, agrees. She points out that while humans are generally resilient, as the planet continues to warm, mental health is becoming an ever more critical issue—even though comprehensive data is often insufficient.
These experts found that female survivors experienced greater psychological suffering than men. “It indicates that women are more susceptible than males in such catastrophes,” Smith explains.
The Difficult Journey to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy states that while some initial improvement in psychological state can happen within a twelve-month period, long-term outcomes are still unclear. The likelihood to which survivors heal is largely determined by the circumstances of their suffering and the care they receive.
The experts observe that the loss of homes and possessions can heighten the psychological burden to rebuild. Smith labels housing loss “a major source of stress,” notably when financial safety nets are absent. “Rebuilding comes with its own mental burden,” she adds.
Ifill sees the parallel situation among her those seeking help: “Individuals who had pre-existing mental health challenges have found it’s much more severe in this aftermath.”
Beyond the emotional impact, practical issues remain. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, delaying the reliable supply of clean water. Monetary relief, while necessary, do not address all of the systemic weaknesses exposed by the storm.
Community Networks as a Essential Lifeline
Critically is that rebuilding alone fails to mend the deep sorrow caused by the loss of loved ones. Research consistently finds that survivors often find community support to be more responsive than bureaucratic help.
“Official action is important,” Smith states. “When it is lacking, or when it is inefficient, neighbors provide mutual aid.”
Ifill also highlights the strength of social bonds in overcoming challenges. She recalls being “moved by the sense of humour” among resilient populations. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they find lightness about the storm.”
Additionally, she acknowledges efforts to support psychological self-care after the disaster but cautions about the harms of constant exposure to traumatic media. “My advice was curating news intake, following official updates, and leveraging technology to maintain social support.”
A Growing Regional Priority
Recently, psychological support has garnered greater attention from international agencies due to the escalating climate crisis. The increasing frequency of climate disasters has led to the development of tools for mental health response.
Regional institutions have published detailed resources to assist responders in delivering psychosocial support in the aftermath of traumatic events. These efforts aim to build psychological fortitude by training professionals, promoting openness, and encouraging the access to psychological care.
Monetary aid are also highlighted as key for protecting mental health. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a previous flood, emphasizes the despair that arises when promised compensation fails to materialize. “Officials visited... But to this date, we did not receive the promised help,” he recounts.
A Call for Integrated Recovery
Analysts observe that the Caribbean region accounts for a very small fraction of global emissions yet bears disproportionate climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed essential to avoid prolonged suffering.
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