When the devastating cyclone ravaged Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it caused a picture of widespread ruin. Dwellings, hospitals, and vital systems were destroyed, leading to 32 deaths and impacting an estimated 1.5 million individuals. For mental health expert Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the physical wreckage would be accompanied by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Everyday sounds can activate them,” Ifill explains. “One woman described a cart we often move through the halls, whose sound evoked memories of cracking branches and the roaring storm. She now refuses to listening to that sound.”
A month and a half after the hurricane, which also impacted neighboring Cuba, flashbacks of the frightening storm continue to affect some staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Simply the noise of falling rain can now prompt panic among those who lived through it.
The Unseen Cost Amidst Financial Losses
The catastrophic event resulted in a massive aid package valued at $6.7 billion over three years and an further payout of millions from a pioneering catastrophe bond. But, authorities note this economic assistance does not address the invisible cost: pervasive mental health crises—particularly among those who had been recovering from another major storm in 2024.
While the primary focus is directed toward restoring buildings, academic work over the last several years show that the probability of severe anxiety disorders rises markedly after climate disasters and forced relocation. Researchers are now advocating for the inclusion of psychosocial services into climate-disaster policy across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Loss and Psychological Well-being
Researchers highlight how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and inadequate services worsen emotional distress. A recent regional study warned of a significant risk of severe mental health issues after natural disasters. Another study recorded comparable anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people who survived previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a academic who has examined disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors often encounter several key psychological hurdles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in disaster studies, concurs. She notes that while individuals can be strong, as the climate crisis worsens, emotional fallout is becoming an ever more critical issue—although extensive research is not widely available.
These experts found that women affected showed more severe emotional impact than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more susceptible than males during these events,” Smith explains.
The Uncertain Path to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy states that while some initial improvement in well-being may occur within a year, the ultimate prognosis are still unclear. The extent to which survivors heal hinges on the circumstances of their suffering and the care they receive.
The experts observe that the destruction of property and livelihoods can intensify the emotional challenge to start over. Smith describes housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” especially when financial safety nets are absent. “Rebuilding comes with its own mental burden,” she says.
Ifill sees the same pattern among her patients: “Those who had pre-existing mental health challenges have noticed it’s much more severe in this short period of time.”
Apart from the emotional impact, tangible issues continue. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, hampering the complete restoration of clean water. Insurance payouts, while helpful, do not address all of the systemic weaknesses laid bare by the storm.
Social Support as a Critical Foundation
A key finding is that material recovery cannot heal the deep sorrow caused by permanent disabilities. Studies shows that survivors often find social networks to be more immediate than official aid.
“State support is essential,” Smith states. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is slow, neighbors provide mutual aid.”
Ifill similarly praises the strength of mutual support in coping with disaster. She notes she was “struck by the positive attitude” among resilient populations. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they share laughter about the storm.”
Additionally, she praises efforts to encourage psychological self-care after the disaster but cautions about the harms of doomscrolling. “I recommended limiting social media, following official updates, and leveraging technology to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Increasing International Focus
Recently, mental health has received more focus from world bodies due to the worsening planetary changes. The rising occurrence of climate disasters has prompted the development of frameworks for trauma support.
Regional institutions have developed practical guides to assist field workers in offering psychological care in the immediate period of disasters. These initiatives aim to foster individual and social resilience by building capacity, reducing shame, and promoting the access to psychological care.
Economic aid are also highlighted as key for preserving emotional well-being. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a similar event, stresses the hopelessness that arises when promised compensation never arrives. “They came... But up to this day, we did not receive compensation,” he says.
A Plea for Comprehensive Recovery
Experts argue that the Caribbean region contributes a tiny fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet bears extreme climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed essential to prevent prolonged suffering.
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