When the devastating cyclone struck Jamaica on October 28th with winds of 185mph, it left behind a scene of widespread ruin. Dwellings, hospitals, and vital systems were severely compromised, resulting in 32 deaths and impacting an estimated 1.5 million. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the material damage would be shadowed by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Commonplace things can provoke them,” Ifill explains. “An individual spoke of a cart we often push through the halls, whose clatter evoked memories of breaking wood and the fierce gales. She no longer wants to listening to that particular noise.”
Weeks after the catastrophe, which also struck parts of Cuba, flashbacks of the horrific event continue to affect some staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of a downpour can now cause panic among survivors.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Billions in Damage
The catastrophic event resulted in a massive financial package totaling $6.7 billion over three years and an extra payment of millions from a innovative disaster insurance instrument. But, experts warn this monetary aid fails to account for the psychological cost: widespread trauma—notably among those who had been recovering from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
Although most attention is directed toward rebuilding infrastructure, studies over the last several years demonstrate that the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) grows significantly after climate disasters and forced relocation. Researchers are now urging the inclusion of psychological care into national recovery strategies across the region.
Increased Risks: Loss and Psychological Well-being
Researchers highlight how prolonged homelessness, vanishing incomes, and insufficient support amplify psychological vulnerabilities. A 2023 Caribbean-focused paper warned of a significant risk of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Further research recorded similar anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people displaced by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has analyzed disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors could face a trio of psychological hurdles: severe stress and mood disorders.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in geography and disaster risk management, agrees. She points out that while individuals can be strong, as the frequency of disasters increases, psychological well-being is becoming an major issue—despite the fact that extensive research is not widely available.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that women experienced more severe emotional impact than male counterparts. “It indicates that women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith explains.
The Uncertain Path to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some initial improvement in mental health can happen within a twelve-month period, the ultimate prognosis are still unclear. The degree to which survivors recover is largely determined by the specific triggers and the resources accessible.
The experts observe that the loss of homes and possessions can intensify the emotional challenge to rebuild. Smith calls housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” especially when people have no economic cushion. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she adds.
Ifill witnesses the same pattern among her clients: “Individuals who had previous psychological issues have noticed it’s significantly worse in this time since the storm.”
Beyond the emotional toll, tangible challenges persist. The hurricane wiped out vital water infrastructure, slowing the full return of clean water. Financial aid, while helpful, are insufficient to fix the deep-seated infrastructure problems laid bare by the storm.
Community Networks as a Essential Lifeline
Critically is that material recovery does not address the psychological injuries caused by life-altering injuries. Research shows that survivors frequently report social networks to be more effective than government assistance.
“Official action is important,” Smith acknowledges. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is inefficient, local people support one another.”
Ifill also highlights the strength of mutual support in coping with disaster. She recalls being “struck by the resilient spirit” among tight-knit groups. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they find lightness about the storm.”
Ifill also commends steps to support mental health awareness after the disaster but cautions about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “The guidance included reducing screen time, sticking to reliable news, and turning to apps to connect with family.”
An Expanding International Focus
Over the past decade, psychosocial care has garnered greater attention from international agencies due to the worsening climate emergency. The growing regularity of hurricanes has led to the development of tools for psychological first aid.
Major health organizations have published comprehensive manuals to train responders in offering psychosocial support in the wake of traumatic events. These initiatives aim to strengthen individual and social resilience by building capacity, reducing shame, and promoting the use of mental health services.
Economic support are also highlighted as fundamental for safeguarding mental health. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a previous flood, emphasizes the frustration that arises when promised compensation is not delivered. “Assessments were made... But even now, we were not granted any payment,” he says.
An Appeal for Integrated Rebuilding
Experts observe that the Caribbean region is responsible for a minuscule fraction of planetary pollution yet bears extreme climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed essential to mitigate prolonged suffering.
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