When the devastating cyclone made landfall on Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it caused a picture of utter destruction. Dwellings, healthcare centers, and key utilities were severely compromised, leading to the tragic loss of 32 lives and affecting an approximate 1.5 million. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the physical wreckage would be accompanied by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Commonplace occurrences can activate them,” Ifill states. “One woman spoke of a trolley we often push through the halls, whose noise reminded her of breaking wood and the roaring storm. She has become averse to hearing that auditory reminder.”
Over six weeks after the hurricane, which also impacted neighboring Cuba, memories of the frightening storm continue to trouble some staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Simply the noise of falling rain can now elicit trauma responses among individuals who endured it.
The Unseen Cost Beyond Economic Reconstruction
This disaster resulted in a significant aid package worth up to up to $6.7bn over three years and an further payment of millions from a pioneering catastrophe bond. But, experts warn this financial relief does not address the invisible cost: widespread trauma—notably among those previously affected from a previous disaster in 2024.
Whereas the lion's share of effort targets restoring buildings, academic work over the past three years indicate that the probability of severe anxiety disorders grows substantially after climate disasters and displacement. Experts are now urging the integration of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across the region.
Layered Struggles: Insecurity and Emotional Stability
Researchers highlight how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and insufficient support exacerbate emotional distress. A recent regional study identified a significant risk of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after natural disasters. Further research found parallel fear, anxiety, and distress among people who survived tropical cyclones.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has studied disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors typically experience a trio of emotional obstacles: severe stress and mood disorders.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in disaster studies, agrees. She notes that while individuals can be strong, as the frequency of disasters increases, emotional fallout is becoming an major issue—although extensive research is not widely available.
The researchers found that women affected experienced more severe emotional impact than men. “So it’s quite possible women are at greater emotional risk than males when disaster strikes,” Smith explains.
The Long Road to Healing
Dr. Heanoy says that while some early progress in mental health can happen within a year of the event, the lasting effects are still unclear. The degree to which survivors heal depends heavily on the specific triggers and the resources accessible.
The experts note that the loss of homes and possessions can intensify the emotional challenge to rebuild. Smith labels housing loss “a major source of stress,” particularly when people have no economic cushion. “Reconstruction comes with its own mental burden,” she adds.
Ifill witnesses the same pattern among her those seeking help: “Those who had mental health conditions before have found it’s significantly worse in this time since the storm.”
Beyond the emotional impact, practical challenges persist. The hurricane severely damaged key water infrastructure, hampering the complete restoration of clean water. Monetary relief, while helpful, are insufficient to fix the chronic vulnerabilities revealed by the storm.
Community Support as a Vital Lifeline
A key finding is that rebuilding alone cannot heal the deep sorrow caused by the loss of loved ones. Research shows that survivors often find community support to be more effective than bureaucratic help.
“Official action is crucial,” Smith acknowledges. “When it is lacking, or when it is delayed, communities provide mutual aid.”
Ifill also highlights the strength of social bonds in navigating hardship. She recalls being “struck by the positive attitude” among strong communities. “Everything is destroyed, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they share laughter about the storm.”
Ifill also commends steps to encourage emotional well-being after the disaster but advises about the dangers of doomscrolling. “The guidance included reducing screen time, following official updates, and using messaging apps to connect with family.”
An Increasing Regional Priority
Recently, psychosocial care has garnered greater attention from global organizations due to the escalating climate crisis. The growing regularity of climate disasters has prompted the development of tools for trauma support.
International bodies have published practical guides to assist aid personnel in offering psychological care in the immediate period of disasters. These projects aim to build community and personal strength by educating caregivers, reducing shame, and facilitating the access to psychological care.
Financial support are also identified as fundamental for preserving mental health. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a past disaster, stresses the hopelessness that arises when official support fails to materialize. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we were not granted compensation,” he recounts.
A Call for Comprehensive Recovery
Experts argue that the Caribbean region is responsible for a tiny fraction of planetary pollution yet bears extreme climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed critical to prevent prolonged suffering.
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