When the devastating cyclone ravaged Jamaica on the 28th of October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it left behind a scene of utter destruction. Homes, hospitals, and critical infrastructure were leveled, causing 32 fatalities and disrupting the lives of an estimated 1.5 million. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the tangible destruction would be accompanied by profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Simple sounds can trigger them,” Ifill explains. “An individual mentioned a wheeled bin we often push through the passageways, whose sound reminded her of splintering trees and the fierce gales. She now refuses to experiencing that particular noise.”
Weeks after the hurricane, which also affected neighboring Cuba, memories of the frightening storm continue to trouble a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of a downpour can now cause stress reactions among those who lived through it.
The Psychological Price Alongside Economic Reconstruction
The catastrophic event led to a significant aid package worth up to up to $6.7bn over a three-year period and an further disbursement of $150 million from a innovative disaster insurance instrument. But, authorities note this monetary aid does not address the unseen cost: widespread trauma—particularly among those who had been recovering from another major storm in 2024.
Although the primary focus is directed toward rebuilding infrastructure, academic work over the last several years indicate that the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) grows substantially after hurricanes and displacement. Mental health professionals are now calling for the integration of mental health support into disaster response plans across Caribbean nations.
Compounded Vulnerabilities: Insecurity and Mental Health
Scholars emphasize how long-term dislocation, destroyed jobs, and insufficient support amplify emotional distress. A 2023 Caribbean-focused paper warned of a heightened danger of severe mental health issues after climate-related events. Another study documented comparable psychological turmoil among people displaced by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has examined disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors typically experience several key mental health challenges: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in risk reduction, agrees. She points out that while humans are generally resilient, as the planet continues to warm, psychological well-being is becoming an increasingly significant issue—even though extensive research is often insufficient.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that female survivors showed more severe emotional impact than male counterparts. “So it’s quite possible women are more susceptible than males during these events,” Smith explains.
The Long Road to Healing
Dr. Heanoy says that while some early progress in well-being can happen within a year of the event, the ultimate prognosis remain uncertain. The likelihood to which survivors heal hinges on the circumstances of their suffering and the support available.
The experts see that the loss of homes and resources can magnify the emotional challenge to rebuild. Smith calls housing loss “a major source of stress,” particularly when people have no economic cushion. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she says.
Ifill sees the same pattern among her patients: “Those who had mental health conditions before have found it’s far more intense in this time since the storm.”
In addition to the psychological damage, tangible issues continue. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, hampering the reliable supply of clean water. Insurance payouts, while crucial, cannot resolve the deep-seated infrastructure problems revealed by the storm.
Grassroots Networks as a Vital Lifeline
Perhaps most importantly is that rebuilding alone cannot heal the psychological injuries caused by the loss of loved ones. Research indicates that survivors commonly experience social networks to be more immediate than official aid.
“State support is crucial,” Smith says. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is delayed, neighbors support one another.”
Ifill similarly praises the power of mutual support in navigating hardship. She notes she was “struck by the resilient spirit” among resilient populations. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they find lightness about the storm.”
Ifill also acknowledges initiatives to promote psychological self-care after the disaster but warns about the harms of doomscrolling. “I recommended reducing screen time, trusting verified sources, and using messaging apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”
A Growing International Focus
Over the past decade, psychological support has garnered greater attention from international agencies due to the intensifying climate crisis. The rising occurrence of extreme weather has prompted the development of guidelines for psychological first aid.
International bodies have published detailed resources to help responders in offering psychological care in the aftermath of traumatic events. These initiatives aim to foster psychological fortitude by training professionals, combating stigma, and promoting the seeking of professional help.
Economic aid are also underlined as key for preserving mental health. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a past disaster, emphasizes the despair that arises when promised compensation never arrives. “Assessments were made... But up to this day, we did not receive the promised help,” he recounts.
An Appeal for Integrated Healing
Experts argue that the Caribbean region accounts for a very small fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet bears disproportionate climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed critical to avoid prolonged suffering.
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