When the devastating cyclone made landfall on Jamaica on October 28th with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it left behind a scene of catastrophic damage. Residences, medical facilities, and critical infrastructure were severely compromised, resulting in the tragic loss of 32 lives and affecting an approximate 1.5 million people. For mental health expert Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the physical wreckage would be accompanied by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Everyday sounds can activate them,” Ifill explains. “An individual described a cart we often push through the passageways, whose clatter evoked memories of splintering trees and the fierce gales. She no longer wants to hearing that particular noise.”
Weeks after the storm, which also impacted parts of Cuba, recollections of the frightening storm continue to trouble some staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of a downpour can now cause panic among individuals who endured it.
The Unseen Cost Beyond Financial Losses
This disaster triggered a significant aid package worth up to $6.7 billion over several years and an extra disbursement of $150 million from a innovative catastrophe bond. But, authorities note this economic assistance fails to account for the unseen cost: pervasive mental health crises—particularly among those who had been recovering from another major storm in 2024.
While the lion's share of effort targets restoring buildings, studies over the last several years indicate that the likelihood of PTSD increases substantially after climate disasters and displacement. Mental health professionals are now urging the integration of psychological care into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Displacement and Mental Health
Researchers emphasize how prolonged homelessness, vanishing incomes, and inadequate services worsen mental health risks. A scholarly article identified a clear threat of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Additional analysis recorded comparable anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people displaced by other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a academic who has examined disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors often encounter three primary mental health challenges: severe stress and mood disorders.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in geography and disaster risk management, echoes this view. She points out that while individuals can be strong, as the climate crisis worsens, mental health is becoming an major issue—although extensive research is not widely available.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that women reported greater psychological suffering than male counterparts. “It indicates that women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.
The Uncertain Path to Healing
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some initial improvement in mental health can happen within a year, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The degree to which survivors heal is largely determined by the circumstances of their suffering and the resources accessible.
The experts see that the destruction of property and possessions can magnify the mental struggle to start over. Smith calls housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” particularly when people have no economic cushion. “Reconstruction comes with its own psychological weight,” she adds.
Ifill observes the same pattern among her those seeking help: “People who had previous psychological issues have noticed it’s far more intense in this time since the storm.”
In addition to the psychological impact, tangible challenges persist. The hurricane destroyed key water infrastructure, hampering the full return of clean water. Monetary relief, while necessary, cannot resolve the systemic weaknesses exposed by the storm.
Social Networks as a Vital Lifeline
Perhaps most importantly is that rebuilding alone cannot heal the emotional wounds caused by permanent disabilities. Expert analysis consistently finds that survivors frequently report help from neighbors to be more effective than bureaucratic help.
“The government’s role is essential,” Smith states. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is delayed, local people keep each other whole.”
Ifill similarly praises the strength of mutual support in overcoming challenges. She says she was “moved by the resilient spirit” among tight-knit groups. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they share laughter about the storm.”
Ifill also commends efforts to encourage psychological self-care after the disaster but advises about the negative effects of constant exposure to traumatic media. “My advice was limiting social media, trusting verified sources, and turning to apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Increasing Regional Priority
Recently, mental health has garnered greater attention from international agencies due to the worsening climate emergency. The rising occurrence of hurricanes has prompted the development of frameworks for trauma support.
Major health organizations have published comprehensive manuals to help field workers in providing psychological care in the aftermath of disasters. These efforts aim to strengthen psychological fortitude by building capacity, reducing shame, and facilitating the access to psychological care.
Monetary aid are also highlighted as crucial for preserving emotional well-being. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a previous flood, emphasizes the frustration that arises when expected aid never arrives. “They came... But to this date, we never got the promised help,” he says.
A Plea for Integrated Healing
Analysts note that the Caribbean region accounts for a very small fraction of global emissions yet suffers disproportionate climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed critical to avoid prolonged suffering.
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