When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on the 28th of October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it resulted in a picture of utter destruction. Homes, medical facilities, and vital systems were destroyed, leading to the tragic loss of 32 lives and impacting an estimated 1.5 million people. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the tangible destruction would be accompanied by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Simple sounds can provoke them,” Ifill notes. “A patient spoke of a trolley we often roll through the corridors, whose noise reminded her of cracking branches and the fierce gales. She no longer wants to hearing that particular noise.”
Over six weeks after the catastrophe, which also impacted parts of Cuba, recollections of the terrifying winds continue to trouble many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of a downpour can now elicit trauma responses among those who lived through it.
The Hidden Toll Amidst Economic Reconstruction
This disaster led to a substantial aid package totaling up to $6.7bn over a three-year period and an further disbursement of $150 million from a groundbreaking disaster insurance instrument. Yet, specialists caution this economic assistance does not address the unseen cost: extensive emotional suffering—particularly among those previously affected from a previous disaster in 2024.
While most attention centers on physical reconstruction, academic work over the last several years show that the likelihood of severe anxiety disorders rises substantially after major storms and displacement. Researchers are now urging the incorporation of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Insecurity and Emotional Stability
Academics stress how extended displacement, loss of livelihoods, and poor access to care worsen psychological vulnerabilities. A scholarly article warned of a clear threat of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after natural disasters. Additional analysis recorded similar anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people displaced by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a academic who has studied disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors often encounter three primary 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 climate crisis worsens, mental health is becoming an major issue—despite the fact that detailed prevalence surveys is still lacking.
These experts found that female survivors reported greater psychological suffering than men. “This suggests women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.
The Uncertain Path to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy states that while some short-term recovery in mental health can happen within a year, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The likelihood to which survivors heal is largely determined by the circumstances of their suffering and the resources accessible.
The experts observe that the being rendered homeless and possessions can magnify the mental struggle to rebuild. Smith describes housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” notably when people have no economic cushion. “Reconstruction comes with its own emotional tax,” she emphasizes.
Ifill witnesses the parallel situation among her those seeking help: “Those who had mental health conditions before have reported it’s far more intense in this aftermath.”
Apart from the psychological damage, physical challenges remain. The hurricane destroyed critical water infrastructure, delaying the reliable supply of potable water. Monetary relief, while helpful, cannot resolve the chronic vulnerabilities exposed by the storm.
Community Support as a Essential Foundation
A key finding is that rebuilding alone does not address the emotional wounds caused by permanent disabilities. Research shows that survivors frequently report social networks to be more effective than government assistance.
“The government’s role is crucial,” Smith says. “When it is lacking, or when it is inefficient, communities provide mutual aid.”
Ifill similarly praises the strength of community solidarity in overcoming challenges. She says she was “moved by the sense of humour” among strong communities. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they share laughter about the storm.”
Additionally, she praises steps to promote mental health awareness after the disaster but cautions about the dangers of constant exposure to traumatic media. “I recommended curating news intake, sticking to reliable news, and leveraging technology to connect with family.”
A Growing Global Recognition
Recently, psychological support has become a higher priority from international agencies due to the intensifying climate crisis. The rising occurrence of climate disasters has led to the development of guidelines for psychological first aid.
Major health organizations have published comprehensive manuals to help responders in delivering psychosocial support in the immediate period of traumatic events. These efforts aim to build community and personal strength by building capacity, reducing shame, and promoting the access to psychological care.
Economic support are also underlined as key for protecting mental health. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost everything in a past disaster, highlights the despair that arises when expected aid never arrives. “They came... But to this date, we never got the promised help,” he states.
A Plea for Comprehensive Rebuilding
Experts observe that the Caribbean region accounts for a very small fraction of planetary pollution yet endures extreme climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed essential to avoid chronic psychological damage.
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