When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on the 28th of October with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it caused a picture of catastrophic damage. Residences, hospitals, and critical infrastructure were severely compromised, causing 32 deaths and disrupting the lives of an approximate 1.5 million. 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 activate them,” Ifill states. “An individual spoke of a cart we often push through the passageways, whose sound sounded like cracking branches and the fierce gales. She has become averse to listening to that auditory reminder.”
Weeks after the storm, which also struck parts of Cuba, memories of the terrifying winds continue to haunt a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of falling rain can now cause panic among individuals who endured it.
The Hidden Toll Beyond Economic Reconstruction
This disaster triggered a significant aid package valued at up to $6.7bn over several years and an additional disbursement of $150 million from a innovative risk financing tool. Yet, authorities note this financial relief cannot cover the invisible cost: widespread trauma—especially among those who had been recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.
Although the primary focus is directed toward restoring buildings, academic work over the last several years demonstrate that the likelihood of PTSD increases substantially after hurricanes and displacement. Experts are now calling for the inclusion of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across Caribbean nations.
Increased Risks: Insecurity and Emotional Stability
Academics emphasize how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and inadequate services amplify mental health risks. A 2023 Caribbean-focused paper warned of a clear threat of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Additional analysis documented similar fear, anxiety, and distress among people affected by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has examined disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors could face three primary emotional obstacles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a scholar in geography and disaster risk management, concurs. She notes that while people are often tough, as the frequency of disasters increases, mental health is becoming an ever more critical issue—despite the fact that detailed prevalence surveys is still lacking.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that women affected reported greater psychological suffering than men. “It indicates that women are more psychologically vulnerable than males when disaster strikes,” Smith explains.
The Difficult Journey to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy states that while some short-term recovery in well-being can happen within a twelve-month period, the lasting effects can be unpredictable. The extent to which survivors heal is largely determined by the circumstances of their suffering and the resources accessible.
The experts note that the destruction of property and possessions can heighten the emotional challenge to start over. Smith calls housing loss “a major source of stress,” especially when financial safety nets are absent. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she adds.
Ifill sees the parallel situation among her those seeking help: “Individuals who had previous psychological issues have found it’s far more intense in this aftermath.”
Apart from the psychological impact, practical problems persist. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, slowing the full return of water services. Financial aid, while necessary, cannot resolve the chronic vulnerabilities exposed by the storm.
Social Support as a Critical Foundation
Critically is that rebuilding alone cannot heal the deep sorrow caused by life-altering injuries. Expert analysis shows that survivors commonly experience help from neighbors to be more effective than official aid.
“State support is essential,” Smith acknowledges. “In its absence, or when it is slow, neighbors support one another.”
Ifill notes the value of community solidarity in navigating hardship. 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 share laughter about the storm.”
Additionally, she commends steps to promote psychological self-care after the disaster but warns about the dangers of consuming endless negative news. “My advice was curating news intake, following official updates, and leveraging technology to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Expanding International Focus
Over the past decade, psychological support has received more focus from world bodies due to the escalating planetary changes. The increasing frequency of climate disasters has prompted the development of tools for mental health response.
Major health organizations have developed comprehensive manuals to assist field workers in offering psychological care in the wake of catastrophes. These efforts aim to strengthen psychological fortitude by training professionals, combating stigma, and encouraging the access to psychological care.
Financial support are also identified as key for safeguarding mental health. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost everything in a similar event, highlights the frustration that arises when promised compensation never arrives. “Officials visited... But up to this day, we never got compensation,” he recounts.
An Appeal for Comprehensive Healing
Experts argue that the Caribbean region is responsible for a minuscule fraction of planetary pollution yet endures disastrous climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed critical to avoid enduring trauma.
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