When the powerful Category 5 storm struck Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it caused a picture of widespread ruin. Dwellings, hospitals, and critical infrastructure were destroyed, resulting in 32 fatalities and impacting an estimated 1.5 million individuals. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was instantly apparent that the material damage would be accompanied by profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Everyday sounds can trigger them,” Ifill states. “An individual mentioned a trolley we often push through the halls, whose sound reminded her of cracking branches and the howling wind. She now refuses to listening to that sound.”
Over six weeks after the hurricane, which also affected eastern Cuba, recollections of the terrifying winds continue to haunt a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of a downpour can now prompt panic among individuals who endured it.
The Psychological Price Beyond Economic Reconstruction
This disaster resulted in a substantial recovery package worth up to up to $6.7bn over several years and an extra disbursement of $150 million from a pioneering risk financing tool. But, authorities note this monetary aid does not address the psychological cost: widespread trauma—notably among those still recovering from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
Although the primary focus centers on physical reconstruction, research over the past three years indicate that the risk of PTSD grows markedly after major storms and displacement. Mental health professionals are now calling for the incorporation of psychological care into climate-disaster policy across small island developing states.
Layered Struggles: Displacement and Psychological Well-being
Researchers stress how prolonged homelessness, destroyed jobs, and inadequate services amplify emotional distress. A recent regional study identified a clear threat of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after extreme weather. Further research found similar fear, anxiety, and distress among people who survived other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has studied disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors could face a trio of psychological hurdles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a scholar in geography and disaster risk management, agrees. She observes that while humans are generally resilient, as the climate crisis worsens, mental health is becoming an ever more critical issue—even though extensive research is still lacking.
These experts found that female survivors reported higher mental distress than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more susceptible than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.
The Uncertain Path to Healing
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some early progress in well-being can happen within a year, the lasting effects are still unclear. The extent to which survivors recover hinges on the circumstances of their suffering and the care they receive.
The experts observe that the loss of homes and resources can intensify the psychological burden to start over. Smith calls housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” notably when financial safety nets are absent. “Starting again comes with its own psychological weight,” she adds.
Ifill witnesses the identical trend among her patients: “Those who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s far more intense in this time since the storm.”
In addition to the mental damage, practical problems remain. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, slowing the reliable supply of potable water. Financial aid, while necessary, do not address all of the chronic vulnerabilities laid bare by the storm.
Social Support as a Vital Pillar
Critically is that physical reconstruction by itself does not address the deep sorrow caused by the loss of loved ones. Studies shows that survivors often find help from neighbors to be more effective than government assistance.
“Official action is crucial,” Smith acknowledges. “When it is lacking, or when it is slow, communities provide mutual aid.”
Ifill similarly praises the strength of community solidarity in overcoming challenges. She recalls being “struck by the resilient spirit” among strong communities. “Everything is destroyed, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they find lightness about the storm.”
She further commends steps to support mental health awareness after the disaster but advises about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “The guidance included curating news intake, trusting verified sources, and turning to apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Expanding Regional Priority
Over the past decade, psychological support has received more focus from world bodies due to the escalating climate crisis. The increasing frequency of climate disasters has prompted the development of tools for psychological first aid.
International bodies have published comprehensive manuals to train field workers in delivering psychological care in the immediate period of disasters. These efforts aim to foster psychological fortitude by training professionals, promoting openness, and facilitating the access to psychological care.
Monetary aid are also identified as crucial for safeguarding psychological recovery. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a past disaster, stresses the frustration that arises when promised compensation never arrives. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we did not receive the promised help,” he recounts.
A Plea for Comprehensive Healing
Experts observe that the Caribbean region is responsible for a very small fraction of global emissions yet suffers disproportionate climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed vital to mitigate prolonged suffering.
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