When the powerful Category 5 storm ravaged Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it left behind a landscape of catastrophic damage. Homes, hospitals, and vital systems were destroyed, resulting in 32 fatalities and affecting an approximate 1.5 million individuals. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the tangible destruction would be accompanied by profound and persistent emotional wounds.
“Commonplace occurrences can provoke them,” Ifill notes. “A patient mentioned a cart we often move through the passageways, whose sound sounded like cracking branches and the roaring storm. She has become averse to listening to that particular noise.”
Weeks after the catastrophe, which also impacted parts of Cuba, memories of the horrific event continue to haunt many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Simply the noise of a downpour can now prompt stress reactions among individuals who endured it.
The Unseen Cost Amidst Billions in Damage
The catastrophic event led to a substantial financial package totaling up to $6.7bn over a three-year period and an extra disbursement of millions from a pioneering catastrophe bond. But, experts warn this economic assistance cannot cover the invisible cost: pervasive mental health crises—particularly among those previously affected from another major storm in 2024.
Whereas the primary focus targets physical reconstruction, studies over the last several years indicate that the risk of PTSD grows significantly after major storms and forced relocation. Researchers are now advocating for the inclusion of mental health support into disaster response plans across the region.
Increased Risks: Loss and Mental Health
Researchers emphasize how prolonged homelessness, destroyed jobs, and inadequate services exacerbate mental health risks. A recent regional study flagged a significant risk of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Another study found similar fear, anxiety, and distress among people affected by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has studied disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors could face several key emotional obstacles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in geography and disaster risk management, concurs. She notes that while people are often tough, as the planet continues to warm, emotional fallout is becoming an major issue—even though extensive research is often insufficient.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that female survivors showed more severe emotional impact than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith explains.
The Difficult Journey to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy says that while some initial improvement in mental health can happen within a twelve-month period, long-term outcomes remain uncertain. The degree to which survivors bounce back is largely determined by the specific triggers and the care they receive.
The experts note that the being rendered homeless and livelihoods can magnify the emotional challenge to start over. Smith labels housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” especially when people have no economic cushion. “Rebuilding comes with its own mental burden,” she says.
Ifill sees the same pattern among her those seeking help: “Those who had previous psychological issues have found it’s significantly worse in this aftermath.”
In addition to the psychological damage, physical challenges continue. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, delaying the reliable supply of water services. Monetary relief, while helpful, cannot resolve the chronic vulnerabilities exposed by the storm.
Grassroots Support as a Essential Pillar
A key finding is that physical reconstruction by itself does not address the deep sorrow caused by permanent disabilities. Research shows that survivors frequently report social networks to be more effective than official aid.
“State support is crucial,” Smith acknowledges. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is inefficient, neighbors support one another.”
Ifill also highlights the strength of social bonds in navigating hardship. She notes she was “impressed by the sense of humour” among tight-knit groups. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they make jokes about the storm.”
She further commends initiatives to support mental health awareness after the disaster but cautions about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “I recommended reducing screen time, trusting verified sources, and turning to apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”
A Growing Global Recognition
In recent years, mental health has received more focus from world bodies due to the intensifying climate emergency. The growing regularity of climate disasters has catalyzed the development of tools for trauma support.
Major health organizations have developed detailed resources to assist aid personnel in providing psychosocial support in the immediate period of traumatic events. These initiatives aim to strengthen psychological fortitude by building capacity, promoting openness, and promoting the seeking of professional help.
Economic resources are also underlined as key for preserving psychological recovery. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a past disaster, stresses the frustration that arises when official support is not delivered. “They came... But up to this day, we were not granted the promised help,” he states.
A Call for Integrated Recovery
Analysts observe that the Caribbean region is responsible for a very small fraction of global emissions yet bears extreme climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed critical to avoid prolonged suffering.
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