When the powerful Category 5 storm struck Jamaica on the 28th of October with winds of 185mph, it left behind a scene of catastrophic damage. Homes, healthcare centers, and vital systems were destroyed, causing 32 fatalities and impacting an estimated 1.5 million people. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the material damage would be shadowed by profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Everyday occurrences can trigger them,” Ifill states. “An individual spoke of a cart we often push through the corridors, whose clatter reminded her of splintering trees and the howling wind. She has become averse to listening to that particular noise.”
Weeks after the storm, which also affected parts of Cuba, flashbacks of the terrifying winds continue to affect a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of falling rain can now cause trauma responses among those who lived through it.
The Psychological Price Alongside Billions in Damage
This disaster resulted in a substantial aid package totaling billions of dollars over a three-year period and an extra disbursement of $150 million from a pioneering catastrophe bond. Yet, experts warn this financial relief cannot cover the psychological cost: extensive emotional suffering—particularly among those who had been recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.
Whereas the lion's share of effort is directed toward rebuilding infrastructure, research over the last several years indicate that the likelihood of PTSD increases markedly after major storms and displacement. Researchers are now urging the integration of mental health support into national recovery strategies across small island developing states.
Layered Struggles: Insecurity and Emotional Stability
Scholars emphasize how long-term dislocation, vanishing incomes, and inadequate services exacerbate mental health risks. A recent regional study warned of a significant risk of severe mental health issues after climate-related events. Additional analysis documented parallel anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people affected by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has analyzed disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors could face three primary psychological hurdles: severe stress and mood disorders.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a scholar in geography and disaster risk management, concurs. She notes that while individuals can be strong, as the frequency of disasters increases, psychological well-being is becoming an increasingly significant issue—although extensive research is still lacking.
The researchers found that female survivors showed greater psychological suffering than men. “This suggests women are more susceptible than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.
The Difficult Journey to Healing
Dr. Heanoy states that while some short-term recovery in mental health is often seen within a year of the event, the lasting effects are still unclear. The degree to which survivors heal depends heavily on the nature of the trauma and the care they receive.
The experts note that the being rendered homeless and resources can magnify the psychological burden to recover. Smith calls housing loss “a major source of stress,” notably when people have no economic cushion. “Rebuilding comes with its own mental burden,” she adds.
Ifill observes the identical trend among her patients: “People who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s significantly worse in this short period of time.”
Apart from the psychological damage, practical problems persist. The hurricane destroyed key water infrastructure, hampering the reliable supply of clean water. Monetary relief, while crucial, do not address all of the systemic weaknesses laid bare by the storm.
Grassroots Support as a Vital Foundation
Perhaps most importantly is that physical reconstruction by itself does not address the deep sorrow caused by the loss of loved ones. Expert analysis consistently finds that survivors frequently report help from neighbors to be more responsive than official aid.
“Official action is essential,” Smith says. “In its absence, or when it is delayed, neighbors support one another.”
Ifill similarly praises the value of mutual support in overcoming challenges. She recalls being “moved by the sense of humour” among strong communities. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they share laughter about the storm.”
She further commends initiatives to promote psychological self-care after the disaster but cautions about the dangers of doomscrolling. “The guidance included curating news intake, trusting verified sources, and turning to apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Increasing International Focus
In recent years, psychosocial care has received more focus from international agencies due to the worsening climate emergency. The rising occurrence of hurricanes has led to the development of frameworks for trauma support.
Major health organizations have released comprehensive manuals to assist responders in providing psychological care in the wake of catastrophes. These projects aim to strengthen psychological fortitude by building capacity, promoting openness, and facilitating the use of mental health services.
Financial resources are also highlighted as crucial for safeguarding emotional well-being. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost everything in a past disaster, stresses the frustration that arises when promised compensation fails to materialize. “Assessments were made... But up to this day, we were not granted any payment,” he says.
A Call for Integrated Healing
Leaders argue that the Caribbean region contributes a minuscule fraction of global emissions yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed critical to prevent enduring trauma.
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